Myofascial pain syndromes in the upper extremity.

Myofascial pain syndromes of the upper extremity are common causes of pain that may follow trauma and are associated with acute or chronic musculoskeletal stress. The syndromes are characterized by the presence of the myofascial trigger point, a physical finding that is reliably identified by palpation. Local and referred pain are hallmarks of the syndrome, and the referred pain patterns may mimic such conditions as radiculopathy and nerve entrapment syndromes. Treatment is directed toward inactivating the myofascial trigger point, correcting underlying perpetuating factors, and restoring the normal relationships between the muscles of the affected functional motor units.