Current pain and headache reports
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Curr Pain Headache Rep · Oct 2006
ReviewPhysical therapy and other nonpharmacologic approaches to fibromyalgia management.
Fibromyalgia is a vague and changing syndrome that comprises many symptoms. Due to the confounding nature of fibromyalgia syndrome, there has been much debate about which interventions and therapies should be considered as viable treatment options. ⋯ Several studies have shown promise, with initial improvement in symptoms, but in many cases, these improvements were not lasting or the patients were then unable to continue/replicate the program on their own. In this article, some of the more recently published findings regarding the efficacy of exercise are explored, specifically physical therapy and other nonpharmacologic interventions, for managing fibromyalgia syndrome.
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Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) is caused by myofascial trigger points (MTrPs) located within taut bands of skeletal muscle fibers. Treating the underlying etiologic lesion responsible for MTrP activation is the most important strategy in MPS therapy. If the underlying pathology is not given the appropriate treatment, the MTrP cannot be completely and permanently inactivated. ⋯ When treating the active MTrPs or their underlying pathology, conservative treatment should be given before aggressive therapy. Effective MTrP therapies include manual therapies, physical therapy modalities, dry needling, or MTrP injection. It is also important to eliminate any perpetuating factors and provide adequate education and home programs to patients so that recurrent or chronic pain can be avoided.