Clinic Wellness Team. A key factor to spine or back pain conditions is staying healthy. Overall wellness involves a balanced diet, appropriate exercise, physical activity, restful sleep, and a healthy lifestyle. The term has been applied in many ways. But overall, the definition is as follows.
It is a conscious, self-directed, and evolving process of achieving full potential. It is multidimensional, bringing together lifestyles both mental/spiritual and the environment in which one lives. It is positive and affirms that what we do is, in fact, correct.
It is an active process where people become aware and make choices towards a more successful lifestyle. This includes how a person contributes to their environment/community. They aim to build healthier living spaces and social networks. It helps in creating a person’s belief systems, values, and a positive world perspective.
Along with this comes the benefits of regular exercise, a healthy diet, personal self-care, and knowing when to seek medical attention. Dr. Jimenez’s message is to work towards being fit, being healthy, and staying aware of our collection of articles, blogs, and videos.
The body is a functional machine that requires many muscles, organs, ligaments, joints, and tissues that provide everyday movements. In the upper extremities, the head, neck, and shoulders have many muscles, ligaments, and tissues that work together with the nerve roots from the nervous system that provides sensory-motor function to make the fingers move, the shoulders rotate, and the head turns from side to side. When injuries or common issues affect the muscles in the head, neck, or shoulders, it can cause small nodules to form along the muscle fibers of the affected muscle area and cause referred pain in different locations of the body. Today’s article looks at the scalene muscles, how trigger points affect the scalene muscles while mimicking shoulder pain, and how to manage chronic pain associated with trigger points. We refer patients to certified providers who specialize in musculoskeletal treatments to aid individuals suffering from trigger points related to the shoulders affecting the scalene muscles. We also guide our patients by referring them to our associated medical providers based on their examination when appropriate. We ensure to find that education is the solution to asking our providers insightful questions. Dr. Jimenez DC observes this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer
What Are The Scalene Muscles?
Have you been experiencing tingling sensations running down your fingertips? Do you feel stiffness when rotating your neck or shoulders? Or do you feel muscle soreness in your shoulders? Many individuals who are feeling any of these symptoms affecting their neck or shoulders could be dealing with trigger point pain along the scalene muscles. The scalene muscles play a crucial part in the head and neck as they are deep muscles positioned laterally on the cervical tract of the spine. These muscles have three different branches: the anterior, medius, and posterior, which play the role of being accessory breathing muscles while being an important contributor to head and neck movement. To that point, it allows stability to the cervical spine. The scalene muscles even help support and elevate the upper rib cage when a person is lifting, pulling, or carrying heavy objects. However, like most muscles in the body, the scalene muscles can be prone to injury and can develop issues that can affect the upper extremities of the body.
Trigger Points Affects The Scalene Muscles Mimicking Shoulder Pain
When common injuries like pulling a muscle when carrying a heavy object or even a traumatic injury like being involved in an auto accident can cause pain in the affected area, over time, if not treated, can cause various symptoms to overlap and affect the muscles. When the scalene muscles are affected by injuries, they can develop tiny nodules along the taut muscle fibers and become hyperirritable to the surrounding areas of the upper half of the body. This is known as trigger point pain and can mimic other chronic issues that affect different body areas. To that point, trigger points affecting the scalene muscles may mimic shoulder pain in the upper half of the body. Studies reveal that scalene myofascial pain is a regional pain syndrome that originates pain in the neck area and radiates pain down to the arm. Since trigger points mimic other chronic issues, it is often misdiagnosed as another neck pain associated with radiculopathy when the scalene muscles are affected. When this happens, the muscles become stiff and weak, causing a reduction in the range of movement.
Studies reveal that when individuals suffer from acute whiplash-associated disorders, the local and referred pain can be elicited from active trigger points to reproduce neck and shoulder pain. This causes a higher disability that exhibits widespread pressure causing the muscles to be hypersensitive and reducing the cervical range of motion. Many individuals often complain about shoulder pain while rubbing the upper parts of their arms. The scalene muscle is affected by active trigger points, thus mimicking shoulder pain.
Scalenes Trigger Points-Video
Have you been feeling muscle stiffness in your neck or shoulders? Have you been experiencing a numbing sensation along your arms? Have you felt tenderness along your shoulders when you touch them? Many of these pain symptoms are associated with trigger points along the scalene muscles. The video above explains where the trigger points are located along the scalene muscles and how they are causing referred pain in the neck and shoulder areas. Many factors can lead to the causation of trigger point pain and overlap with other chronic issues that can affect the upper extremities of the body, using sleep as an example. Studies reveal that poor sleeping posture can affect the neck and shoulders, leading to muscle stiffness along the scalene muscles and developing trigger points over time. Fortunately, various ways to manage referred shoulder pain are associated with trigger points.
Management Of Chronic Shoulder Pain Associated With Trigger Points
Many individuals are referred to pain specialists that can alleviate trigger points along the scalene muscle to reduce the effects of shoulder and neck pain. When referred pain along the scalene muscles causes chronic shoulder pain associated with trigger points, many people often do various movements to alleviate the pain. However, it can cause more pain in the affected area and prevent relief from the neck and shoulders. Studies reveal that various treatments like physiotherapy, trigger point injections, manipulation of the cervical spine, or acupuncture can help relax and lengthen the muscle fibers associated with the scalene muscle. To that point, this allows the neck to extend further without pain and reduces the overlapping symptoms that affect the upper extremities of the body.
Conclusion
The scalene muscles play a crucial part in the head and neck area as deep muscles are positioned laterally on the cervical tract of the spine. These muscles help elevate the upper chest and laterally bend the neck from side to side. When injuries affect the scalene muscles and form tiny nodules known as trigger points, it can cause referred pain to the shoulders and the neck. To that point, symptoms like numbing or tingling sensations can travel down the arms and fingers. Fortunately, available treatments can reduce the symptoms and manage myofascial trigger pain along the shoulders and neck associated with the scalene muscles. This allows a better range of motion to the neck and shoulder and prevents future trigger points from forming in the scalene muscles.
References
Abd Jalil, Nizar, et al. “Scalene Myofascial Pain Syndrome Mimicking Cervical Disc Prolapse: A Report of Two Cases.” The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences : MJMS, Penerbit Universiti Sains Malaysia, Jan. 2010, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3216145/.
Bordoni, Bruno, and Matthew Varacallo. “Anatomy, Head and Neck, Scalenus Muscle.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 16 Apr. 2022, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK519058/.
Fernández-Pérez, Antonio Manuel, et al. “Muscle Trigger Points, Pressure Pain Threshold, and Cervical Range of Motion in Patients with High Level of Disability Related to Acute Whiplash Injury.” The Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy, U.S. National Library of Medicine, July 2012, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22677576/.
Lee, Won-Hwee, and Min-Seok Ko. “Effect of Sleep Posture on Neck Muscle Activity.” Journal of Physical Therapy Science, The Society of Physical Therapy Science, June 2017, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5468189/.
Thapa, Deepak, et al. “Management of Chronic Shoulder Pain with Restricted Mobility – a Case Series.” Indian Journal of Anaesthesia, Medknow Publications & Media Pvt Ltd, Nov. 2016, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5125193/.
The muscles in the body help provide motion and protect the skeletal joints from harm. Each muscle group has ligaments, tissues, and muscle fibers that retract, stretch, and contract the body while helping the host to do everyday movements, breath, digest food, stabilize, and even rest. When a person is dealing with pain from a traumatic event or making repetitive motions, it can affect the muscles over time. Factors like not drinking enough water, constantly looking down on the phones, and being hunched over can cause strain on the muscles, causing overlapping pain on top of other chronic issues that may develop. When the muscles begin to cause pain along the shoulders and neck, it can become a risk of developing trigger points in the levator scapulae muscles. Today’s article examines the levator scapulae muscles, how trigger points affect these muscles, and how treatments can help manage the trigger points on the levator scapulae muscles. We refer patients to certified providers who specialize in musculoskeletal treatments to aid individuals suffering from trigger points associated with the neck and shoulders affecting the levator scapulae muscles. We also guide our patients by referring them to our associated medical providers based on their examination when appropriate. We ensure to find that education is the solution to asking our providers insightful questions. Dr. Jimenez DC observes this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer
What Is The Levator Scapulae?
Have you been dealing with pain along the neck or shoulders? Do you feel stiffness when turning your head from side to side? Or do you feel tenderness in the base of your neck and shoulders? Many individuals with shoulder and neck pain risk developing trigger points along the levator scapulae. The levator scapulae muscles originate from the posterior tubercles of the C1 through C4 vertebrae in the neck that is between the superior angle and the root of the scapulae spine. This superficial muscle’s primary function is to elevate the scapulae or the shoulder blades while working together with the trapezius and rhomboid muscles to assist the movement. The levator scapulae muscles also assist in providing neck extension, ipsilateral rotation, and lateral flexion. When pathologies like fibromyalgia, levator scapulae syndrome, or cervical myofascial pain begin to affect the levator scapulae muscles, the symptoms can potentially involve the shoulders and neck to cause referred pain to the upper extremities.
How Trigger Points Affect The Levator Scapulae?
Many individuals with shoulder and neck pain have described radiating pain from their neck to their shoulders. Known as referred pain, the pain is located in one area of the body but in a different location. Studies reveal that when pain radiates from the neck and shoulders, any movements that are overstretching the levator scapulae can aggravate overlapping symptoms on the affected side. This allows small nodules to form along the levator scapulae muscle fibers, causing trigger points to affect the shoulder and neck muscles.
Trigger point associated with the levator scapulae muscles causes the individual to have pain-like symptoms in the neck that causes muscle stiffness. This causes an emphasis on referred pain symptoms from the levator scapulae, like neck tension and restriction of range of motion on the neck. Studies reveal that pain over the superior angle of the levator scapulae is a common musculoskeletal disorder that is often accompanied by radiating pain on the neck, head, and shoulders. Some of the ways that trigger points form along the levator scapulae muscle can be due to ordinary factors like:
Stress
Posture
Over-exercising
Upper respiratory infections
Some of these factors above can shorten the levator scapulae muscle and restrict muscle movement to provide a full range of motion for the head and neck to turn. To that point, treatments are available to help loosen up and stretch the levator scapulae muscles to allow rotation and flexion on the neck and shoulders.
Trigger Points Anatomy On The Levator Scapulae- Video
Have you been dealing with stress that is affecting your neck and shoulders? Have you been dealing with neck stiffness when turning your head? Or have you been feeling muscle tenderness between the neck and shoulders? Some of these symptoms are associated with trigger points affecting the levator scapulae muscles between the neck and shoulder. The video above overviews common trigger points and how they affect the levator scapulae, causing shoulder and neck pain. Since the levator scapulae muscles lay behind the trapezius muscle, studies reveal that trigger points or myofascial pain syndrome can cause hyperirritability in the muscle tissues and affect mobility functions in the nerve ends. Even though referred pain affects the neck and shoulder of the body, treatments are available to manage trigger points on the levator scapulae and relieve neck and shoulder pain.
Treatments To Manage Trigger Points On The Levator Scapulae
When there is trigger point pain affecting the levator scapulae, some common complaints that many individuals often complain about are neck and shoulder pain. However, various ways can alleviate the pain symptoms from the neck and shoulders while managing trigger points associated with the levator scapulae. Studies reveal that stretching the levator scapulae muscle in a seated position can improve muscle length along the levator scapulae and the cervical range of motion. Stretching the levator scapulae muscle can help reduce the pain along the levator muscle. To that point, it even helps reduce muscle imbalances and movement dysfunction along the cervical joints. Many individuals are referred to pain specialists like chiropractors by their doctors to reduce pain and functionality disability in the neck and realign the spine to loosen up the stiff muscles caused by subluxation. Realigning the cervical spine and stretching can reduce future trigger points and reduce pain symptoms from affecting the muscle.
Conclusion
The levator scapulae muscles in the body provide movement functionality to the neck and shoulders. The levator scapulae work together with the trapezius and rhomboid muscles to elevate the shoulder blades and assist with neck extension, ipsilateral rotation, and lateral flexion. When pathologies affect the levator scapulae muscles, they can develop trigger point pain along the muscle and cause neck and shoulder pain. The factors that cause trigger point pain can either be ordinary or traumatic and cause referred pain to the neck and shoulders. Fortunately, treatments like stretching and adjustments can help reduce the pain and loosen up stiff muscles along the levator scapulae. This will allow a cervical range of motion back to the neck and shoulder and elongate the levator scapulae.
References
Akamatsu, Flávia Emi, et al. “Trigger Points: An Anatomical Substratum.” BioMed Research International, Hindawi Publishing Corporation, 2015, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4355109/.
Henry, James P, and Sunil Munakomi. “Anatomy, Head and Neck, Levator Scapulae Muscles.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 13 Aug. 2021, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK553120/.
Jeong , Hyo-Jung, et al. “Stretching Position Can Affect Levator Scapular Muscle Activity, Length, and Cervical Range of Motion in People with a Shortened Levator Scapulae.” Physical Therapy in Sport : Official Journal of the Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Sports Medicine, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 4 Apr. 2017, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28578252/.
Kulow, Charlotte, et al. “Levator Scapulae and Rhomboid Minor Are United.” Annals of Anatomy = Anatomischer Anzeiger : Official Organ of the Anatomische Gesellschaft, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Aug. 2022, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35367623/.
Menachen, A, et al. “Levator Scapulae Syndrome: An Anatomic-Clinical Study.” Bulletin (Hospital for Joint Diseases (New York, N.Y.)), U.S. National Library of Medicine, 1993, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8374486/.
Yogurt is a dairy product made by the bacterial fermentation of milk. The bacteria used are called yogurt cultures, which ferment lactose, which is the natural sugar found in milk. This process produces lactic acid that causes milk proteins to curdle, giving yogurt its flavor and texture. It can be made from all types of milk. Although research is ongoing, the benefits of adding yogurt to one’s nutrition plan can improve overall health, including improved bone health, circulation, immune system function, and probiotics/healthy bacteria that improve digestion and gut health.
Health Benefits
Yogurt comes from milk that varies; some are made from skim and fat-free, whereas whole milk is full-fat. Other nutrients include calcium, vitamin B-2, vitamin B-12, potassium, and magnesium. More research is needed, but there is some evidence that active cultures can help certain gastrointestinal conditions, including:
The faster time food takes to circulate through the bowels.
Immune system improvement.
Feel Fuller
Yogurt is rich in protein and healthy fats, which makes it very filling. Both of these nutrients are key to feeling full for longer. A study found consuming high-protein Greek yogurt in the afternoon resulted in less hunger, increased fullness and delayed the need to eat before dinner.
It can replace the fat, oil, and/or butter in muffin, brownie, or cake recipes.
Speak with a nutritionist and health coach to find out if yogurt would be beneficial. Nutritionists work with individuals to find the best foods for their body type, age, and health condition, explain how different foods impact the body, and what foods to avoid.
Functional Nutrition
References
Andoh, Akira. “Physiological Role of Gut Microbiota for Maintaining Human Health.” Digestion vol. 93,3 (2016): 176-81. doi:10.1159/000444066
Bull, Matthew J, and Nigel T Plummer. “Part 1: The Human Gut Microbiome in Health and Disease.” Integrative medicine (Encinitas, Calif.) vol. 13,6 (2014): 17-22.
Cleveland Clinic: “Which Yogurt is Right For You?” “Why — and When — You Should Include Probiotics in Your Diet.”
Jandhyala, Sai Manasa, et al. “Role of the normal gut microbiota.” World journal of gastroenterology vol. 21,29 (2015): 8787-803. doi:10.3748/wjg.v21.i29.8787
Le Roy, C.I., Kurilshikov, A., Leeming, E.R. et al. Yoghurt consumption is associated with changes in the composition of the human gut microbiome and metabolome. BMC Microbiol 22, 39 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12866-021-02364-2
Wu, Hsin-Jung, and Eric Wu. “The role of gut microbiota in immune homeostasis and autoimmunity.” Gut microbes vol. 3,1 (2012): 4-14. doi:10.4161/gmic.19320
The cervical spine has a casual relationship with the central nervous system as the brain and spinal cord works together to send neuron signals through the nerve pathways spread throughout the entire body. The cervical spine is part of the neck, where ligaments and muscles encompass the cervical joints to stabilize the head, neck, and shoulders. The neck has various muscles that support the head and can succumb to various injuries that can cause muscle strain and other associated symptoms that can affect the upper extremities of the body. Today’s article looks at the posterior cervical muscles, how trigger points affect the posterior cervical muscles, and how non-invasive treatments can help manage myofascial cervical pain. We refer patients to certified providers who specialize in musculoskeletal treatments to aid individuals suffering from myofascial trigger pain associated with the neck affecting the posterior cervical muscles. We also guide our patients by referring them to our associated medical providers based on their examination when appropriate. We ensure to find that education is the solution to asking our providers insightful questions. Dr. Jimenez DC observes this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer
What Are The Posterior Cervical Muscles?
Have you been experiencing random headaches that affect your day? Do you feel any tension in your neck? Or do you experience stiffness and limited mobility when turning your neck? Most of these symptoms are associated with trigger pain affecting the posterior cervical muscle on the neck. The posterior cervical muscles function in the neck’s anatomic region while protecting the cervical spine. The muscles in the cervical spine form a triangle on the neck while providing functionality and movement to the neck, the head, shoulder, and upper back. Some of the muscles that work together with the cervical spine include:
Levator scapulae
SCM (Sternocleidomastiod)
Trapezius
Erector spinae
Deep cervical flexors
Suboccipitals
Semispinalis
Splenius
These muscles and soft tissues provide stability to the neck and work together with the tendons and ligaments to rotate, extend, and retract the head, neck, shoulders, and upper back. To that point, if the neck muscles become strained, it can lead to various issues that can cause pain to the neck and cervical spine.
How Trigger Points Affect The Posterior Cervical Muscles
Studies reveal that a musculoskeletal disorder known as cervical myofascial pain causes the surrounding muscles in the neck and shoulder regions to become tender to the touch and evoke pain in different areas of the body. When the posterior cervical muscle has become strained from various issues like poor posture, over-exercising, getting involved in an auto accident, or have suffered from a degenerative condition, it can cause the muscles to be overused, hypersensitive, and stiff while potentially being at risk of developing trigger points along the neck and shoulder muscles. Trigger points are a bit problematic as they are associated with referred pain and can be either latent or active as they create tiny nodules along the taut muscle fibers in the area. Research studies reveal that referred pain from cervical myofascial pain can be elicited by active trigger points on the affected muscle. To that point, the active trigger points can mimic other pain symptoms along the upper extremities, making diagnosing myofascial pain challenging. Thankfully there are ways to manage trigger point pain associated with the posterior cervical muscles along the neck and cervical spine.
Exercises For Neck & Shoulder Pain-Video
Have you been experiencing stiffness along the sides of your neck or on your shoulders? Do headaches make it impossible to get through an entire day? Or have you been feeling tightness along your jawline? Many people with neck pain and its associated symptoms could risk developing myofascial trigger pain along the posterior cervical muscles. Having myofascial trigger pain associated with the posterior cervical muscle and affecting the neck and upper extremities can cause many people to be miserable; however, there are many ways that people can utilize to relieve the pain along the posterior cervical muscles and manage myofascial cervical pain associated with the neck. The video above provides various neck and shoulder pain exercises correlating with myofascial trigger points. To that point, finding non-invasive available treatments to manage myofascial cervical pain can help reduce the effects of pain along the neck and posterior cervical muscles.
Non-Invasive Treatments To Manage Myofascial Cervical Pain
Many people suffer from neck pain associated with myofascial cervical pain; many factors can contribute to developing tiny nodules along the posterior muscles. Studies reveal that activities, whether work-related or for entertainment, can yield repetitive stress on the muscle groups that cause chronic tension in the muscle fibers to form trigger points. To that point, myofascial trigger pain causes the taut muscle bands to be hyper-sensitive and affect the muscle area. Many people suffering from myofascial trigger pain can utilize non-invasive treatments to manage myofascial pain associated with the posterior cervical muscle. Some of the treatments that help manage myofascial cervical pain include:
Acupuncture
Trigger point release therapy
Chiropractic care
Heat therapy
Exercise/stretching
Many of these treatments help release the trigger points from the affected muscles and help prevent them from re-occurring on the affected muscles along the upper extremities.
Conclusion
The neck has many muscles, ligaments, and tissues that help support the upper extremities of the body. When issues begin to affect the functionality of the neck muscles, it can lead to the development of myofascial trigger pain in the posterior cervical muscles along the neck to cause painful symptoms. This can lead to overlapping chronic issues like stiffness and tenderness in the upper extremities. Non-invasive treatments can help alleviate the pain and manage the symptoms caused by myofascial cervical pain in the upper extremities of the body. This allows the affected muscle to return to its functionality and prevents future issues from affecting the body.
References
Alghadir, Ahmad H, et al. “Efficacy of Combination Therapies on Neck Pain and Muscle Tenderness in Male Patients with Upper Trapezius Active Myofascial Trigger Points.” BioMed Research International, Hindawi, 10 Mar. 2020, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7085833/.
Fernández-de-Las-Peñas, César, et al. “The Role of Myofascial Trigger Points in Musculoskeletal Pain Syndromes of the Head and Neck.” Current Pain and Headache Reports, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Oct. 2007, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17894927/.
Stathakios, James, and Michael A Carron. “Anatomy, Head and Neck, Posterior Cervical Region.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 27 July 2021, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551521/.
Touma, Jeffrey, et al. “Cervical Myofascial Pain.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 4 July 2022, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507825/.
Having headaches can affect anyone at any time, and various issues (both underlying and non-underlying) can play a part in the development. Factors like stress, allergies, traumatic events, or anxiety can trigger the causes of headaches to develop and can affect a person’s day-to-day schedule. Headaches can come in various forms and be the cause or symptom of other conditions. Many complain about headaches affecting their forehead, where the occipitofrontalis muscle resides, and explain to their doctors about a dull ache affecting them. To that point, the cause of the headache could affect them differently. Today’s article examines the occipitofrontalis muscle, how myofascial trigger pain affects this muscle, and ways to manage myofascial trigger pain associated with headaches. We refer patients to certified providers who specialize in musculoskeletal treatments to aid individuals suffering from myofascial trigger pain associated with headache symptoms affecting the occipitofrontalis muscle. We also guide our patients by referring them to our associated medical providers based on their examination when appropriate. We ensure to find that education is the solution to asking our providers insightful questions. Dr. Jimenez DC observes this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer
What Is The Occipitofrontalis Muscle?
Have you been experiencing unexplainable headaches that seem to affect your daily life? Do you feel muscle tension in your head or neck? Or do certain areas in your upper body seem tender to the touch? Many individuals suffer from headaches, and it could be due to myofascial trigger pain associated with the occipitofrontalis muscle. The occipitofrontalis muscle surprisingly plays an important part in the facial muscles. The occipitofrontalis muscle is the only muscle that can raise eyebrows, convey emotions, and provide non-verbal communication as part of its functionality to the head. The occipitofrontalis muscle has two different sections in the head that play different roles. Studies reveal that the occipital and frontal bellies have other actions but work together despite being connected to the galea aponeurotica. However, like all muscles in different body sections, various factors can affect the muscles to become tender and form multiple symptoms associated with pain.
How Does Myofascial Trigger Pain Affect The Occipitofrontalis?
When various factors begin to affect the occipitofrontalis muscle, it could potentially be at risk of developing myofascial trigger pain associated with headaches in the muscle. Studies reveal that myofascial trigger pain is a musculoskeletal disorder associated with muscle pain and tenderness that can be identified as latent or active. When the occipitofrontalis is affected by myofascial pain, it could potentially lead to tension-type headaches as a symptom. Studies reveal that headaches, especially tension headaches, are associated with trigger points in the head and neck muscles. Myofascial pain occurs when the muscles become overused and sensitive to the touch. The affected muscle then develops small nodules along the muscle fibers and can cause referred pain in a different body section. To that point, the affected muscle becomes hypersensitive due to an excess of nociceptive inputs from the peripheral nervous system, thus eliciting referred pain or muscle contraction. When this happens to the individual, they experience constant, throbbing pain in their forehead and try to find relief to diminish the pain.
Myofascial Exercises For Headaches-Video
Have you been feeling tension and pain in your neck or head? Do headaches seem to affect your daily activities? Does the slightest pressure seem to cause you pain in your muscles? Experiencing these symptoms may be a sign that you may have myofascial trigger pain associated with the head and neck that is causing headache-like pain along the occipitofrontalis muscle. The video above demonstrates various stretching exercises for headaches and migraines associated with myofascial trigger pain. Myofascial trigger pain associated with headaches can cause overlapping issues in the upper extremities of the body since myofascial trigger pain can mimic other conditions that affect the head and neck muscles. Known as referred pain, the underlying cause of pain affects a different body part than the actual location. Luckily, there are ways to manage myofascial trigger pain associated with headaches along the occipitofrontalis muscle.
How To Manage Myofascial Trigger Pain Associated With Headaches
There are many ways to manage headache symptoms associated with myofascial trigger pain along the occipitofrontalis muscle. Many people will take over-the-counter medicine to dull the pain, while others use a cold/hot pack to be placed on their forehead to relieve the tension caused by the headache. Those experiencing trigger point pain along the affected muscles that are not responding to the at-home treatments will go to a specialist that uses various techniques to manage myofascial trigger pain associated with headaches. Studies reveal that manual trigger point therapies for the head and neck may reduce the frequency, intensity, and duration of various headaches affecting the occipitofrontalis muscle. Other treatments that help manage myofascial pain associated with the occipitofrontal muscle include:
Chiropractic care: Spinal misalignment or spinal subluxation in the cervical spine can potentially lead to the development of myofascial trigger pain associated with muscle pain
Acupuncture: Dry needles are placed on the trigger points associated with the affected muscle to relieve pain
Hot/cold compress: Ice or heat packs are placed on the affected muscle to relieve tension.
Massage therapy: Deep tissue massage can relieve the inflamed area, reduce pain, and prevent trigger points from reemerging.
Utilizing these treatments can help prevent myofascial pain and manage headache symptoms associated with the muscle.
Conclusion
Headaches can affect anyone, and various issues can affect their development. Whether it is an underlying or non-underlying cause, multiple problems can trigger a headache to form and cause a dull ache in the affected muscle. One of the most common forms of headaches occurs in the occipitofrontalis muscle located in the forehead and near the base of the skull. The occipitofrontalis muscle is the only muscle that controls eyebrow movement, conveys emotions, and provides non-verbal communication as part of head functionality. However, like all muscles, the occipitofrontalis can become affected and potentially risk developing myofascial trigger pain. When this happens, the occipitofrontalis could develop tension-type headaches associated with myofascial trigger pain. Luckily available treatments are there to manage myofascial trigger pain associated with the occipitofrontalis muscle and alleviate headaches from the affected muscle.
References
Bérzin, F. “OCCIPITOFRONTALIS Muscle: Functional Analysis Revealed by Electromyography.” Electromyography and Clinical Neurophysiology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 1989, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2689156/.
Chatchawan, Uraiwan, et al. “Characteristics and Distributions of Myofascial Trigger Points in Individuals with Chronic Tension-Type Headaches.” Journal of Physical Therapy Science, The Society of Physical Therapy Science, Apr. 2019, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6451952/.
Falsiroli Maistrello, Luca, et al. “Effectiveness of Trigger Point Manual Treatment on the Frequency, Intensity, and Duration of Attacks in Primary Headaches: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.” Frontiers in Neurology, Frontiers Media S.A., 24 Apr. 2018, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5928320/.
Moraska, Albert F, et al. “Responsiveness of Myofascial Trigger Points to Single and Multiple Trigger Point Release Massages: A Randomized, Placebo Controlled Trial.” American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Sept. 2017, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5561477/.
Pessino, Kenneth, et al. “Anatomy, Head and Neck, Frontalis Muscle – NCBI Bookshelf.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 31 July 2021, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557752/.
The lower jaw of the body has the mastication muscles surrounding the mandible and provides functionality to the jaw through chewing, moving the lower jaw up, down, left, and right, and speaking. The jaw also has joints known as the temporomandibular joints that slide back and forth to provide movement also. The jaw is also home to the teeth and tongue, which play a role in the mouth by consuming and grinding food into smaller bites to travel down to the gut system. Just like every joint and muscle in the body, common issues or injuries can affect the jaw and cause pain symptoms associated with the problem. Sometimes normal wear and tear can affect the joints in the jaw, or traumatic events can affect the surrounding muscles causing soreness in the jaw area. If the issue involving the jaw is not treated over time, it can lead to chronic disorders and overlap with other chronic disorders that can affect the whole body and the jaw. One of the jaw disorders is TMJ dysfunction, which can cause overlapping symptoms in the jaw and the body. Today’s article examines what TMJ dysfunction is, the signs and symptoms, and ways to manage TMJ dysfunction in the jaw. We refer patients to certified providers who specialize in musculoskeletal and oral treatments to aid individuals suffering from TMJ dysfunction affecting their jaws. We also guide our patients by referring them to our associated medical providers based on their examination when appropriate. We ensure to find that education is the solution to asking our providers insightful questions. Dr. Jimenez DC observes this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer
What Is TMJ Dysfunction?
Have you been experiencing muscle pain in your neck, shoulders, and jaw? What about tenderness in your cheek when you lightly touched it? Or do you have difficulty chewing or moving your jaw when speaking? Many of these symptoms are signs that you could be experiencing TMJ dysfunction in your jaw. TMJ dysfunction, or temporomandibular dysfunction, is part of a group of orofacial pain conditions that affects the jaw joint and muscle, thus causing overlapping issues in the lower jaw. TMJ dysfunction also affects the mastication muscles that help move the jaw by making the muscles hyperactive and causing referred pain to the rest of the body. Studies reveal that about 25% of the population does get affected by TMJ dysfunction since it is a degenerative musculoskeletal condition associated with morphological and functional jaw deformities.
The Signs & Symptoms Of TMJ Dysfunction On The Jaw
TMJ dysfunction may potentially not only cause jaw pain but can also affect the neck and shoulders connected to the cervical spine. Studies reveal that TMJ dysfunction is correlated with neck disability, jaw dysfunction, and muscle tenderness in many individuals that suffer pain with or without TMJ dysfunction. TMJ dysfunction is associated with these issues because the jaw structures are affected by trigger points along the neck and jaw. To that point, TMJ dysfunction is often accompanied by back, joint, and abdominal pain. But how would TMJ dysfunction correlate with these pain issues? Studies reveal that disturbances in the upper body extremities may cause an increase in muscle tension associated with the whole-body imbalance that is potentially causing TMJ dysfunction. Some of the related symptoms of TMJ dysfunction in the jaw include:
Pain in neck and shoulders
The jaw becomes “locked” in an open or closed position
Headaches
Earaches
Muscle tenderness in the jaw
Having difficulty chewing
Swelling on the side of the face
Body imbalance
Exercises For TMJ Dysfunction- Video
Have you been experiencing muscle tenderness in your jaw? What about having some difficulty chewing or speaking? Do you hear popping sounds when your open or close your mouth? Some of these symptoms are associated with a musculoskeletal jaw disorder known as TMJ (temporomandibular joint) dysfunction. The video above shows the top 3 exercises for TMJ dysfunction that can help alleviate pain from the jaw, face, or ear. TMJ dysfunction is a musculoskeletal disorder that affects the mastication muscles and causes referred pain to the neck, head, and ear. TMJ dysfunction is tricky to diagnose since trigger points associated with TMJ may also affect the teeth, causing tooth pain in the oral-facial region. This is known as somato-visceral, where the affected muscle correlates with the corresponding organ. Thankfully, there are ways to manage TMJ dysfunction and its associated symptoms.
Ways To Manage TMJ Dysfunction In The Jaw
Many people can use various ways to manage TMJ dysfunction in the jaw to alleviate the pain. Some non-surgical treatments that individuals can incorporate include:
Heat or cold pack applied to the side of the face
Gentle stretching exercises for the jaw
Eating soft foods
Wearing a night guard while sleeping
If the pain from TMJ dysfunction still affects the individual, therapies like chiropractic care can help manage the symptoms. Chiropractic care can effectively treat TMJ dysfunction, especially spinal subluxation or misalignment in the cervical region. Chiropractors will fully evaluate the patient’s temporomandibular joint and surrounding muscles, joints, and ligaments to identify the TMJ problem and the underlying causes. To that point, a chiropractor may suggest a range of treatments, which includes stretches and exercises to not only alleviate pain and stiffness in the jaw point but also to bring back balance to the body. This allows minimal rubbing and friction in the jaw joint.
Conclusion
Overall, TMJ dysfunction is a musculoskeletal jaw disorder that affects the mastication muscles and causes referred pain to different areas in the upper extremities of the body. Some of the symptoms of TMJ dysfunction can make it difficult for the jaw to open or close, causing pain, headaches, and muscle tenderness in the neck and shoulders. To that point, individuals suffering from TMJ dysfunction may potentially deal with pain-related symptoms. Various non-surgical treatments are available to manage TMJ dysfunction and reduce associated pain symptoms affecting the jaw.
References
Kim, Doori, et al. “The Relationship between Spinal Pain and Temporomandibular Joint Disorders in Korea: A Nationwide Propensity Score-Matched Study – BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders.” BioMed Central, BioMed Central, 29 Dec. 2019, https://bmcmusculoskeletdisord.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12891-019-3003-4.
Murphy, Meghan K, et al. “Temporomandibular Disorders: A Review of Etiology, Clinical Management, and Tissue Engineering Strategies.” The International Journal of Oral & Maxillofacial Implants, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2013, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4349514/.
Silveira, A, et al. “Jaw Dysfunction Is Associated with Neck Disability and Muscle Tenderness in Subjects with and without Chronic Temporomandibular Disorders.” BioMed Research International, Hindawi Publishing Corporation, 2015, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4391655/.
Walczyńska-Dragon, Karolina, et al. “Correlation between TMD and Cervical Spine Pain and Mobility: Is the Whole Body Balance TMJ Related?” BioMed Research International, Hindawi Publishing Corporation, 2014, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4090505/.
Clean eating for beginners is a way to approach how you eat by removing unnecessary fats, sugars, and carbs, avoiding processed foods, and embracing vegetables, whole foods, unrefined grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. The more you practice, the more the craving for salts and sweets decreases and no longer satisfies. The idea is to combine a clean eating lifestyle with an active life that turns into long-term healthy habits.
Clean Eating
Junk food refers to processed/refined foods, artificial flavors, sugars, salts, high saturated fats, and other foods that don’t provide nutrition. Clean foods fill the body with an abundance of vitamins and minerals, high-quality protein, and healthy fats, which improve heart and brain health, assist with weight management, strengthen the immune system and increase energy levels. Clean eating guidelines include:
Preparing and Cooking Own Food
Preparing and cooking your food is an easy way to control what goes into your body.
You control the salt, sugar, flavors, and fats with the objective of keeping the levels as low as possible.
Restaurant and diner food tastes great, but it is usually because salt, sugar, and butter are added to everything.
Whole Foods
Whole foods have not been modified, processed or refined, or saturated with preservatives, added sugars, dyes, fats/hydrogenated fats, or salt to add extra flavor or to enhance shelf life.
They include fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, unsalted nuts/seeds, whole grains, full-fat dairy products, and dried beans/legumes.
Unrefined foods contain more nutrients and fiber, essential for healthy body function.
For example – broccoli is a carbohydrate but provides a lot of fiber, antioxidants, and other nutrients, so it’s recommended when eating clean.
Fats should come from unsaturated fats as much as possible, avoiding saturated and trans fats when possible.
This should be practiced with every meal, whether a snack or dinner.
Limit Adding Salt, Sugar, and Fats
Avoid unnecessary additives, like fat, salt, and sugar, when choosing foods.
Clean eating detoxes the body, so pastries, hamburgers, fries, and fried foods begin to taste too sweet or salty because the body is no longer used to them.
The body and tastebuds become acclimated to whole foods with no longer a need for additives.
Five to Six Small Meals
Counting calories does not take into account the value of each calorie.
Making mindful decisions for all foods, like lean protein, complex carbohydrates, fats, fresh fruits, and vegetables, will make the calories count.
Eating five to six times a day in the right amounts with three small main meals and two to three healthy snacks prevents:
Over-eating
Skipping meals
Exhaustion or jitteriness from unstable blood sugar levels.
Avoid foods with labels that include words like modified, which indicates added processing, and words that end with the lettersose, which indicate added sugars/fructose.
Look for labels with whole grains and whole wheat.
High-calorie foods should have low saturated fat and sugar levels and calories that come from fiber and lean proteins.
Sodium levels should be as low as possible; the body only needs 250 mg daily.
Drink Plenty of Water
Water needs to be consumed throughout the day, every day.
Water will maintain body hydration and function and prevent hunger.
Fruit juices contain more nutrients than soda but can be high in calories and sugar. Read the labels.
To start, take small steps so the body can gradually transition into healthy habits that will last long-term. This is a new lifestyle, not a trending fad. Individuals are recommended to ease into it, and then it will begin to feel normal. Injury Medical Chiropractic Clinic has a Functional Medicine team, including a certified nutritionist, to help individuals develop a nutrition plan specific to their needs.
For Beginners
References
Ambwani, Suman et al. “”It’s Healthy Because It’s Natural.” Perceptions of “Clean” Eating among U.S. Adolescents and Emerging Adults.” Nutrients vol. 12,6 1708. 7 Jun. 2020, doi:10.3390/nu12061708
Allen, Michelle, et al. “The Dirt on Clean Eating: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of Dietary Intake, Restrained Eating, and Opinions about Clean Eating among Women.” Nutrients vol. 10,9 1266. 8 Sep. 2018, doi:10.3390/nu10091266
Ghaderi, Ata. “A European perspective on “clean eating”: Commentary on Negowetti et al. (2021).” The International journal of eating disorders vol. 55,1 (2022): 49-51. doi:10.1002/eat.23615
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