Síndrome Miofascial: o que é e tratamento em Lisboa

MIOFASCIAL SYNDROME - Treatment in Lisbon

Specialised assessment and treatment of Myofascial Pain in Lisbon

WHAT IS MYOFASCIAL SYNDROME?

Avaliação e tratamento da Síndrome Miofascial — NeuroPsyque Lisboa

A chronic muscular and fascial pain condition

Myofascial Syndrome is a chronic pain disorder in which pressure on sensitive, rigid points in the muscles (the so called trigger points or trigger points) causes intense, deep pain, both at the affected site and in apparently unrelated areas of the body ("referred" pain). Unlike ordinary muscle tension, myofascial pain persists or worsens over time.

Most common manifestations

Trigger points
Tense, painful nodules or bands palpable under the skin, embedded in the muscle fibres.
Referred Pain
Pain that radiates and is felt in a different place to where the pressure is being applied.
Stiffness and Limited Movement
Persistent tension that reduces the flexibility and joint range of the affected area.
Fatigue and Sleep Disturbance
Constant pain makes it difficult to sleep well, generating chronic fatigue and exacerbating the perception of pain.

CAUSES AND TRIGGERS

Muscle overload

Constant repetitive movements at work, in sports activities or simply in the daily routine, which exhaust the muscle fibres.

Mechanic

Inadequate posture

Prolonged standing in incorrect positions subjects certain muscle groups to continuous tension, favouring the formation of trigger points.

Ergonomic

Muscle trauma

Direct injuries, strains, sprains or surgical scars that cause structural changes and create areas of chronic painful tension.

Physical

Stress and Emotional Tension

Anxiety and psychological stress can result in persistent involuntary muscle contraction, especially in the neck, shoulders and jaw areas.

Psychological

Fatores de risco e impacto da dor miofascial no sistema musculoesquelético

Other factors include nutritional deficiencies (e.g. Vitamin D, B12), metabolic changes and severe sleep deprivation.

Book an appointment

EFFECTIVENESS IN THE TREATMENT OF MYOFASCIAL SYNDROME

Clinical results of neuromodulation in relieving chronic pain and restoring daily energy

75%

of patients with myofascial pain report profound relief after mild brain stimulation (tDCS), regaining daily mobility and reducing dependence on painkillers.

40%

reduction in the brain signals that amplify pain through Neurofeedback. This training relaxes chronic muscle tension, restoring the physical energy expended in everyday life.

Double action of Magnetic Stimulation (EMT): not only does it alleviate severe contractures, but it also improves the symptoms of sadness, despondency and mental fog associated with chronic pain.

Consecutive days of targeted neuromodulation have proven to break cycles of extreme stiffness. Fewer twinges translate into nights of restful sleep and ease of basic movements.

* Data based on recent clinical trials and meta-analyses of neuromodulation (tDCS, Neurofeedback and EMT) in chronic musculoskeletal and myofascial pain syndromes. The clinical response is always individual.

Sources: Clinical Study of tDCS in Myofascial Pain (Sakrajai et al.), Trial of Neurofeedback in Chronic Pain (IEEE, 2024), Meta-analysis EMT and Musculoskeletal Pain (Wang et al., 2025)

TECHNOLOGY AND THE THERAPEUTIC ENVIRONMENT

Controlo neurológico da dor crónica e vias miofasciais

Estimulação Magnética Transcraniana (EMT) para dor crónica e central

Acupuntura Médica e alívio de pontos-gatilho

tDCS - Estimulação Eléctrica Transcraniana para relaxamento muscular

Mapeamento Cerebral na avaliação da Dor Crónica

Salas de Reabilitação Física e Fisioterapia

THE IMPORTANCE OF CORRECT DIAGNOSIS

Myofascial syndrome is often confused with fibromyalgia or certain types of joint pain, which leads to ineffective treatments based solely on generic painkillers. An accurate differential diagnosis, carried out through rigorous palpation and an assessment of the patient's biomechanics, is the first step towards drawing up a rehabilitation plan that goes straight to the root of the tension and pain.

💡 Identifying and deactivating trigger points and treating sensitisation of the central nervous system are essential steps to interrupting the chronic pain cycle and ending movement restriction.

At NeuroPsyque, the approach to myofascial pain is truly multidisciplinary. We offer focused treatments (such as advanced physiotherapy) combined with neuromodulation therapies (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation or tDCS), excellent allies for combating central sensitisation and the associated chronic pain, guaranteeing faster relief and consolidated long-term results.

BOOK AN ASSESSMENT

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ's about Myofascial Syndrome

What is the difference between Myofascial Syndrome and Fibromyalgia?

Myofascial Syndrome is characterised by localised pain (with referred pain/spreading from palpable trigger points) originating in the muscles or "fascia". Fibromyalgia, on the other hand, is a generalised, systemic pain disorder throughout the body. It is possible, however, for a patient to suffer from both conditions.

What exactly are trigger points?

These are small, hardened and very irritable areas in the muscle fascia (the connective tissue that surrounds the muscle). They form when a bundle of muscle fibres undergoes continuous contraction and is unable to relax, creating a small "knot" that compromises local blood flow and generates intense pain signals.

Does the treatment of trigger points cause pain?

There may be some discomfort when it is deactivated (either by manual pressure, dry puncture or shock waves), often described as "good pain" or tension relief. The transient local pain usually fades quickly, giving way to considerable muscle release and improved movement.

Does neuromodulation (EMT and tDCS/ETCC) help with myofascial pain?

Yes. When pain becomes chronic, the Central Nervous System goes into "sensitisation" (amplifying pain signals). Therapies such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation and tDCS help modulate the areas of the brain responsible for processing pain, promoting not only analgesic relief but also overall relaxation.

Does chronic myofascial pain require a multidisciplinary approach?

Yes, definitely. When the pain persists beyond what is expected, it is essential to rule out underlying neurological causes - the role of Neurology - and intervene simultaneously on muscular and postural function through specialised physiotherapy. The integration of these valences into a structured plan of pain treatment not only reduces the intensity of symptoms, but above all breaks the cycle of central sensitisation that perpetuates chronic pain.

How long does treatment or recovery take?

It varies greatly depending on the chronicity of the condition, the age of the patient and their commitment to postural exercises. However, local interventions (such as infiltrations or myofascial manipulation) associated with rehabilitation tend to bring clear relief and increased mobility within the first 2 to 4 weeks.

Can myofascial pain recur after treatment?

Yes, recurrence is possible if the original causes are not corrected (e.g. improper posture, untreated excess stress, or mechanical/ergonomic deficits). That's why our focus is not just on "erasing" the pain, but on re-educating the body to prevent future overloads. Talk to us for an evaluation.