Soft tissue musculoskeletal pain is a symptom of many conditions and can be extremely painful to live with, without treatment. It is usually felt in tissues around sore bones and joints and can be difficult to pinpoint or diagnose. It usually comes from the muscles supporting a joint, including the bursa, and the pain is often coupled with inflammation.
The pain can be due to injury or overuse of a particular joint or part of the body. It can also be associated with other symptoms and is often a sign of conditions such as fibromyalgia.
Treatment for Soft Tissue Pain
Treating soft tissue musculoskeletal pain often starts with simple practices such as applying heat or ice to the affected area. You may also be prescribed painkillers of some kind or be able to take over the counter medication.
When the pain is linked to other condition more in-depth care and pain management may be necessary. Joint stiffness associate with soft tissue musculoskeletal pain may need physiotherapy and a referral may be made by your GP or specialist doctor.
Trigger Points and Musculoskeletal Pain
Musculoskeletal pain is often exacerbated if the painful or sorest area of the body is touched or manipulated. Trigger points are the most sensitive areas of the body to touch and it can cause extreme pain, not necessarily in the area where you’re being touched, but in the area where the pain is greatest. This kind of pain is known as referred pain and can be indicative of a condition known as myofascial pain syndrome.
Myofascial pain syndrome is often treated through close management of the trigger points, through therapies such as acupressure and massage.
Appointments and Consultations for Musculoskeletal Pain
Dr Stephanie Barrett treats patients with a wide range of musculoskeletal and rheumatic conditions. Sometimes finding the cause of the pain can be tricky but a treatment plan can be organised. Dr Barrett can also refer you for further treatment where necessary and work with you to find the best management of your pain.
If you would like to find out more about pain management and treatment or to make an appointment with Dr Stephanie Barrett please call 020 7730 8508 or make an appointment here.
