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How the Experts Diagnose Trigger Point Pain Syndrome
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Posted on: 04/12/2007
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In this study, researchers report how experts diagnose myofascial trigger point (MTrP) pain syndrome. Trigger points are hyperirritable spots within a tight band of muscle or in the fascia over the muscle.
Many people suffer from this painful muscle condition. Accurate diagnosis helps guide treatment. To find out what criteria experts use in the diagnosis, the authors reviewed 93 studies on the subject.
They found 19 different ways health care providers assess and diagnose MTrPs. Four factors were used most often:
Tender points in the muscle
Patient report of pain pattern
Typical pattern of pain expected from specific MTrPs
Local twitch reponse
The local twitch response is the visible contraction of tense muscle fibers when pressed.About half the studies used tender points and expected pain pattern as their criteria. Eleven studies didn't report any method used to diagnose MTrPs.
The authors point out that there isn't a consistent way to define or diagnose MTrPs among researchers. Studies so far have not found a reliable method to use. No one has found any lab test to help make the diagnosis.
More study is needed to develop a diagnostic process for MTrP everyone can use.
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References:
Elizabeth A. Tough, MSc, et al. Variability of Criteria used to Diagnose Myofascial Trigger Point Syndrome -- Evidence from a Review of the Literature. In The Clinical Journal of Pain. March/April 2007. Vol. 23. No. 3. Pp. 278-286.
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