February 5, 2012
Topics A-Z Pain Trigger Points in Fibromyalgia
Trigger Points in Fibromyalgia |
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Dear Ask The Doctor: I am suffering from chronic muscle pain, mainly in my back. The slightest exertion aggravates it. My doctor isn't sure what it is though it's similar to fibromyalgia. Lyrica helps cover up the pain somewhat, but the muscles are still tight and in spasm. Rubbing some of them with my fingers actually produces a sound that I can hear through bone conduction because they're so tight. I have heard many times that muscle relaxant medications don't really relax muscles. But apparently something does: I have heard that drunk drivers survive accidents better because the alcohol relaxes their muscles. Be that an urban legend or not, is there something I can take less destructive than alcohol that will cause the muscles to relax and relieve the spasms? thanks. Dear John: According with your description most likely those hard points in your muscles are localized contractures called: trigger points, because when you touch or rub them they produce (“trigger”) pain. Fibromyalgia is a widespread or global pain, it can start in one site , as in your case in the back, but becomes generalized pain for more than 3 months of duration, it can affect individuals of any age, and more women than men, but just the 2% of the general population in US meet the criteria to be diagnosed of Fibromyalgia. It is true that the alcohol can produce muscle relaxation but is also a depressor of the central nervous system. There are some muscle relaxers but they need prescription, now this is what can you do : avoid all the activities that produce pain or discomfort, such as weight lifting. Also very important is the reeducation to keep a good posture at all times. Deep miofascial relief massage in the trigger points. Control of the pain and inflammation with Ice, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), and anti-inflammatory drugs (such as ibuprofen). Keep a consistent exercise routine with stretching and extension-flexion which may reduce tension and stress to the spinal joints. A home program is developed within the tolerance and ability of the patient in order to encourage continued exercise after discharge from physical therapy. |
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| Last Updated ( Tuesday, 09 March 2010 ) |
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