Myofascial Aspects of Low Back Pain

Myofascial pain syndromes are an often overlooked but treatable source of pain and discomfort in the low back. They are caused by muscle trigger points that restrict movement and refer pain to distant sites. They often complicate or coexist with other causes of low back pain, and they can mimic other neuromusculoskeletal disorders. Successful management of these syndromes requires the identification of trigger points by manual examination, identification of mechanical or systemic perpetuating factors, inactivation of specific trigger points, and corrective action to prevent their recurrence.