Frequently Asked Questions “Chronic Muscle Pain” Q. I have chronic muscle pain… what can I do to treat this? A. Chronic muscle pain is also known as Myofascial Pain Syndrom. It can occur in a single muscle, or multiple areas of the body. It occurs when a muscle is strained or injured, and can become chronic if scar tissue forms, or the muscle developes persistant spasms. ‘Knots’ of muscle fibers can develop, called trigger points, which are tender to the touch, and can often be felt under the skin. Treatment should involve physical therapy, massage therapy, relaxation training, and often injections will help. These trigger points injections may contain saline solution, local anesthetic, and/or cortisone, or a combination of these. They can be performed in your doctors office, and may need to be repeated on several occasions for any long-term effect. Please see us for a consultation if you think this is affecting you. David Velling M.D. Interventional Pain Mgmt Specialist The Pain Center of Western Washington 34509 9th Ave S., Suite 203B * Federal Way, WA * 98003 Ph: (253) 874-8774 * Fax: (253) 874-8775 www.thepaincenterwa.com