Effectiveness of treatment of myofascial pain syndrome with the help of physical therapy and massage

Abstract

The aim of the study was to determine the effectiveness of physical therapy and massage methods for reducing pain symptoms in patients with chronic myofascial pain syndrome, the duration of which was at least 12 weeks. The main focus was on eliminating pain trigger points and long-term muscle relaxation around the affected areas. The study involved 20 patients who complained of chronic pain accompanied by limited joint mobility, in particular temporomandibular joints, discomfort while chewing and episodic attacks of acute pain. The patients were prescribed a 12-week course of treatment, which consisted of weekly physical therapy and massage sessions aimed at reducing muscle tension and improving joint mobility. During the course, three sessions were held per week, each lasting 45 to 60 minutes. Physical therapy included exercises aimed at strengthening muscles and stretching myofascial tissues to facilitate movement. Massage techniques included deep tissue massage, myofascial release, and manual therapy aimed at relaxing tight muscles around the temporomandibular joint and reducing pain trigger points. The results of the study showed a significant reduction in pain intensity after treatment: the average pain score on the visual analogue scale decreased from 7.8 ± 0.9 to 2.3 ± 0.7 at rest and from 8.1 ± 1.1 to 3.1 ± 0.8 during exercise (p 0.01). In addition, the amplitude of mouth opening increased from 27 ± 3 to 39 ± 4 mm (p 0.01), indicating improved joint mobility, and the functional activity score on the Helkimo scale improved from 3.5 to 1.2 (p 0.01), indicating an overall reduction in symptoms and improvement in joint function. Six months after completion of the treatment, 85% of patients maintained a stable therapeutic effect: 12% of patients had complete pain relief, and 5% had low-level pain. Also, the restoration of normal muscle function was recorded in 80% of patients, improved joint flexibility and correction of postural position in 75% of cases