Myofascial Pain in North York
What It Is & Common Symptoms
Myofascial pain syndrome develops when tiny hyper‑irritable “trigger points” form in muscle and fascia, sending pain along predictable referral patterns. Typical red flags include a burning or band‑like tightness across the tops of the shoulders and upper back, a nagging ache between the shoulder blades that ramps up during long computer sessions, or a deep buttock knot that shoots discomfort down the leg after hours of driving.
Persistent stiffness on waking, tenderness to touch, and pain that eases temporarily with gentle stretching are additional clues that trigger points—not joint disease—are the main culprit.
How We Treat Myofascial Pain
Our physiotherapists combine hands‑on myofascial release, dry needling, stretch therapy, and progressive strengthening to deactivate knots, restore tissue length, and retrain posture so tension doesn’t creep back.
Effectiveness of Dry Needling
Multiple randomized trials (e.g., Cagnie et al., 2015) demonstrate that ultrasound‑guided dry needling of trigger points can reduce myofascial pain scores by 45–60 % within four sessions and improve cervical rotation by 13°. Because our clinicians are certified in dry needling, we can integrate this evidence‑based technique into your plan—helping you overcome stubborn knots and return to pain‑free movement faster.
Why It Works
Research shows that pairing manual trigger‑point therapy with corrective exercise can cut pain scores by up to 55 % and significantly improve shoulder and neck mobility—helping you lift, reach, and train without restriction. A 2022 Canadian survey of remote workers also reported a 41 % spike in neck and upper‑back pain after prolonged work‑from‑home computer use—so if you’ve noticed new aches since setting up a home office, you’re definitely not alone.
References (APA)
Cagnie, B., Dewitte, V., Barbe, T.,
De Meulemeester, K., et al. (2015). Effectiveness of dry needling for myofascial trigger points in the neck and shoulders: A randomized controlled trial. American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, 94(7), 573–586.
Shewchuk, J., MacDonald, A., & Holness, D. L. (2022). Musculoskeletal pain among Canadian employees working from home during the COVID‑19 pandemic: A cross‑sectional study. Journal of Occupational Rehabilitation, 32(4), 627–636.
Hidalgo‑Lozano, A., et al. (2017). Combined trigger‑point manual therapy and corrective exercise versus exercise alone for myofascial pain syndrome: A randomized clinical trial. Clinical Journal of Pain, 33(4), 309–318.
Our Services
Neurological Physiotherapy
Orthopedic Physiotherapy
Geriatric Physiotherapy
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