Current pain and headache reports
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Myofascial pain disorder can originate from various muscles in the body. Numerous therapeutic approaches have been used to treat myofascial pain syndrome with varying success. ⋯ The conditions that have been investigated include chronic low back pain, chronic cervical-associated headache, myofascial pain, myofascial pain syndrome and pain from chronic muscle spasm, and refractory myofascial pain. One of these studies was an open-label, exploratory pilot study into the cervicothoracic and lumbosacral regions using a novel injection technique.
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Curr Pain Headache Rep · Oct 2002
ReviewA review of the use of topical analgesics for myofascial pain.
Numerous treatment strategies for myofascial pain syndrome are available, including physical therapy, behavioral pain management techniques, acupuncture, various types of injections, and the use of various pharmacotherapeutic approaches. The use of topical analgesics for myofascial pain syndrome is the focus of this review. The use of topical analgesics in other painful states is also reviewed.
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Although tension-type headache is the most frequent primary headache, little is known about its pathophysiology. It is a matter of debate if the pain in tension-type headache originates from myofascial tissues or from central mechanisms in the brain. ⋯ From experimental research and clinical studies, it appears that myofascial nociception is important in episodic tension-type headache; however, central mechanisms (ie, central sensitization) are preponderant in the pathophysiology of the chronic form. Understanding the mechanisms of this central sensitization could allow for more efficient prophylactic treatments to emerge.
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Curr Pain Headache Rep · Oct 2002
ReviewThe role of temporomandibular disorders and cervical dysfunction in tension-type headache.
It has been estimated that 30% to 80% of the population has at least one tension-type headache each year. Tension-type headaches can be located in any region of the head, which can confuse a differential diagnosis with temporomandibular joint disorders and cervical dysfunction. The roles of temporomandibular joint disorders and cervical dysfunction in tension-type headache are evaluated. Definitions, pathophysiology, and treatment considerations for each are discussed.
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Curr Pain Headache Rep · Oct 2002
ReviewThe use of complementary medical therapies in the management of myofascial pain disorders.
Complementary medical therapies are commonly used for the treatment and management of myofascial pain. No universally accepted therapy for this condition exists; consequently, patients often seek alternative and complementary therapies. Many complementary treatments are available. ⋯ Although anecdotally claimed as effective, most of these modalities have not been rigorously investigated because of poor research quality. Appropriate controls, sample sizes, and blinding measures are often lacking. Despite these issues, the trend toward efficacy exists and further examination is warranted.