Dr. Justin LoBello
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Long Island Podiatrist serving Massapequa and all of Nassau County

Myofascial pain syndrome is a chronic pain disorder that affects the muscles and fascia, causing painful trigger points to develop in muscles throughout the body, including in the feet. Placing pressure on these trigger points can result in deep, aching pain—both at the trigger point and in seemingly unrelated parts of the body (referred pain). Myofascial pain syndrome

Often, when people experience foot pain, they're tempted to just rest and give the problem some time to resolve on its own. However, this approach doesn't work for myofascial pain syndrome, as its symptoms tend to persist or worsen over time. If myofascial pain makes your every step miserable or forces you to limit your activities, it's time to see a see a skilled podiatrist. Here's what you need to know about this debilitating, chronic pain disorder, its effects on the feet, and how the exceptional podiatrists at Massapequa Podiatry Associates, Dr. Corey Fox and Dr. Justin LoBello, can help you find relief.

Understanding Fascia and Its Role in Myofascial Pain Syndrome

Fascia is a thin connective tissue that covers, connects, or surrounds every muscle, organ, bone, blood vessel, and nerve fiber in your body. It holds muscles together, allowing them to stretch and contract, and provides a slick surface that reduces friction and prevents muscle tears. Fascia isn't just structural; it contains nerves and tightens in response to stress.

People with jobs or hobbies that involve repetitive motions or stress-related muscle tension are particularly prone to developing myofascial pain syndrome. Muscle injuries and frequent stress and anxiety may also play a role in this condition.

The Connection Between Myofascial Pain Syndrome and Fibromyalgia

Although myofascial pain syndrome and fibromyalgia are both chronic pain disorders and are often confused for one another, the conditions aren't the same. However, according to the Mayo Clinic, research suggests that myofascial pain syndrome may actually play a role in the development of fibromyalgia, a signal processing disorder that can cause symptoms that include widespread pain.

Myofascial Pain Syndrome Can Cause or Exacerbate Podiatric Pain

Trigger points often feel like small bumps, knots, or nodules to the touch, but they're actually tight stands of muscles that are stuck in contraction. The presence of myofascial trigger points on the soles and heels of your feet can cause considerable pain and discomfort, especially if your job requires you to spend hours standing on hard surfaces. In addition to causing foot, ankle, calf, and lower leg pain, myofascial pain syndrome can also exacerbate the pain associated with existing podiatric problems such as plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, Achilles tendon issues, and muscle spasms or tightness below the knee.

How a Podiatrist Can Help Relieve Podiatric Myofascial Pain

At Massapequa Podiatry Associates, we'll work to get to the bottom of your myofascial pain and match you with the treatment solution that best meets your needs and lifestyle.

Possible Recommended Treatment

  • Over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers
  • Physical therapy
  • Shockwave therapy
  • Laser therapy
  • Platelet-rich plasma injections
  • Lifestyle changes such as reducing stress, getting regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy sleep schedule

Schedule an Appointment

If you’re tired of your podiatric myofascial pain trigger points dictating what you can and can't do, take the first step toward taking your life back..