Understanding Myofascial Pain and Trigger Point
10.14476/jomp.2025.50.4.109
- Author:
Jang-Keun CHO
1
;
You-Mee LEE
;
Hyun-Dae LIM
Author Information
1. Department of Oral Medicine, College of Dentistry, Wonkwang University, Iksan, Korea
- Publication Type:Review Article
- From:
Journal of Oral Medicine and Pain
2025;50(4):109-116
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) is a localized musculoskeletal pain disorder characterized by the presence of myofascial trigger points (TrPs), which are hyperirritable foci within taut muscle bands. These TrPs produce local tenderness and referred pain that may appear both near and distant from the source. Pathophysiological explanations for MPS have evolved over time. Simons’ integrated hypothesis remains influential, proposing that excessive acetylcholine release at the neuromuscular junction increases muscle tension, leading to local hypoxia, adenosine triphosphate depletion, and the release of pain mediators. This cascade creates a self-perpetuating cycle of nociceptor activation and persistent sarcomere contraction. In parallel, referred pain—a hallmark of MPS— has been explained by the convergence of nociceptive signals on shared spinal neurons, which may mislead the brain regarding the true origin of pain. Clinically, MPS diagnosis remains rooted in palpation. Continued research is refining both the mechanistic understanding of MPS and the diagnostic tools available for its evaluation. In this article, we present an extensive analysis of MPS by examining the nature and function of trigger points, the diagnostic and classification challenges, and the diverse treatment approaches available.
