Myofascial pain is a chronic condition that affects the fascia (connective tissue that covers the muscles). "Myofascial pain syndrome can be confused with fibromyalgia and may also accompany it. Unlike fibromyalgia, myofascial pain tends to occur in trigger points, as opposed to tender points, and typically there is no widespread, generalized pain", according to A.D.A.M.

Myofascial pain is caused by abnormal stress on the muscles. It's common for myofascial pain to limit jaw movement and to affect muscles in the neck, back, and shoulder. However, myofascial pain syndrome can affect any skeletal muscle in the body.

Myofascial pain syndrome is a common condition. Considering that approximately 14.4 percent of the general United States population have chronic musculoskeletal pain, it has been estimated that 21 to 93 percent of patients complaining of regional pain actually have myofascial pain syndrome. Read more in What is Myofascial Pain?

Related Resources:

• Excerpt: The Types of Pain
• Fibromyalgia Screening Quiz
• Test Your Knowledge: Fibromyalgia
• 10 Things You Should Know About Fibromyalgia
• Rheumatism, Rheumatic Disease, and Arthritis: Are They the Same?

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