Fibromyalgia and myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) are often mistaken for one another because they both involve persistent muscle pain and tenderness. However, the root causes, patterns of pain, and treatments for each condition are not the same. Understanding these differences is key to getting the right diagnosis and finding effective relief.
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In this article, we’ll break down what sets fibromyalgia apart from myofascial pain syndrome, how they are diagnosed, and what treatment options are available.
What is Fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that causes widespread pain throughout the body. People who live with it often describe the pain as aching, burning, or throbbing, and it is usually felt on both sides of the body, above and below the waist. Along with pain, fibromyalgia can bring other symptoms such as extreme tiredness, difficulty sleeping, headaches, and problems with memory and concentration, often referred to as “fibro fog.” Because these symptoms are invisible and can vary from day to day, fibromyalgia is sometimes misunderstood or mistaken for other conditions.
The exact cause of fibromyalgia is not fully known, but research suggests that it is linked to the way the brain and nervous system process pain signals. This makes the body more sensitive, so even mild sensations can feel painful. Stress, infections, or physical trauma can trigger the condition, and women are more likely to be affected than men. Although fibromyalgia has no cure, a combination of treatment strategies such as medication, gentle exercise, stress management, and healthy lifestyle changes can help people manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
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What is Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS)?
Myofascial pain syndrome is a chronic condition that affects the muscles and the connective tissue, known as fascia, that surrounds them. It is caused by the development of trigger points, which are small, tight knots in the muscle that can be felt under the skin. These trigger points are painful when pressed and can also cause pain to spread to other parts of the body, a phenomenon known as referred pain.
The condition is often linked to repetitive muscle use, poor posture, stress, or injuries that strain the muscles. People with MPS may feel deep, aching pain in specific areas, along with muscle stiffness and reduced range of motion. The pain usually affects localized regions rather than the entire body, making it different from conditions like fibromyalgia.
Although MPS can interfere with daily activities, treatment is usually focused on relieving the trigger points and restoring normal muscle function. Approaches include physical therapy, stretching, massage, dry needling, and in some cases, injections. With the right treatment plan, many people are able to reduce their symptoms and regain better control over their muscle health.
Key Differences Between Myofascial Pain Syndrome and Fibromyalgia
There are some important differences between myofascial pain syndrome and fibromyalgia. Let’s explore them in more detail:
Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS)
- MPS leads to localized muscle pain and discomfort in surrounding tissue.
- The pain often comes from trigger points, which are small knots in muscles that can cause local or referred pain.
- It commonly affects the neck, shoulders, and back, but can involve other muscles too.
- Symptoms include muscle stiffness, reduced range of motion, and tenderness around trigger points.
- MPS can be acute, resolving with rest and simple treatment, or chronic, lasting six months or longer.
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Fibromyalgia
- Fibromyalgia causes widespread pain throughout the body, rather than being limited to one area.
- Pain may feel like a deep ache, burning, or throbbing, and can sometimes be mistaken for joint pain.
- Symptoms often worsen in the morning and can affect both muscles and joints.
- People with fibromyalgia often experience tender points, which are painful when pressed but do not radiate pain.
- The condition is also linked to fatigue, sleep disturbances, headaches, digestive problems, and cognitive issues (“fibro fog”).
How Do Doctors Diagnose Myofascial Pain Syndrome vs. Fibromyalgia?
Doctors use different approaches when diagnosing myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) and fibromyalgia because the conditions present in very different ways.
Diagnosing Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS)
MPS is usually identified during a physical exam. The doctor carefully examines the muscles to check for trigger points, which are small, tight knots that hurt when pressed and can sometimes cause referred pain in other areas. Pressing these points may also cause a local muscle twitch. The diagnosis is largely based on the presence of these trigger points, the patient’s pain history, and whether the symptoms match typical referral patterns. Imaging tests are not usually needed but may be ordered to rule out other causes of muscle pain.
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Diagnosing Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia does not have visible physical signs like trigger points, so doctors rely on symptom patterns. Diagnosis is based on the widespread presence of pain lasting for more than three months, often measured using the Widespread Pain Index (WPI) and the Symptom Severity Scale (SSS). These tools evaluate how many areas of the body are affected and how severe related symptoms are, such as fatigue, sleep disturbances, and cognitive difficulties. Blood tests or imaging may be done, but usually to rule out other conditions like arthritis, thyroid disorders, or autoimmune diseases.
Treatment Approaches
Both fibromyalgia and myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) can cause long-lasting pain, but their treatments differ because the underlying causes are not the same.
Treating Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. Since there is no single cure, doctors often recommend a combination of approaches:
- Medications: Pain relievers, antidepressants, and anti-seizure drugs may help reduce pain and improve sleep.
- Exercise: Gentle, low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, or yoga can ease stiffness and boost energy.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps patients cope with stress, anxiety, or depression linked to chronic pain.
- Lifestyle changes: Good sleep habits, balanced nutrition, and stress management are essential for long-term relief.
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Treating Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS)
MPS treatment aims to release or deactivate trigger points and restore normal muscle function. Common treatments include:
- Physical therapy: Stretching, posture correction, and strengthening exercises reduce muscle strain.
- Trigger point therapies: Massage, dry needling, or trigger point injections directly target painful knots.
- Heat therapy and relaxation techniques: Improve blood flow and reduce muscle tension.
- Medications: Pain relievers or muscle relaxants may be prescribed for short-term relief.
Conclusion
Fibromyalgia and myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) are often confused because both involve muscle pain, yet they are very different conditions. Fibromyalgia causes widespread pain throughout the body and is linked to the way the nervous system processes pain signals. In contrast, MPS is a localized pain condition caused by trigger points within specific muscles.
Understanding these differences is important because it helps patients and doctors choose the right treatment approach. While fibromyalgia management focuses on reducing overall symptoms and calming the nervous system, MPS treatment is centered on releasing painful trigger points and restoring muscle function. With proper diagnosis and care, people living with either condition can find effective ways to manage pain and improve their quality of life.