MYOFASCIAL PAIN SYNDROME IN NEUROLOGICAL DISEASES

Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) is a prevalent musculoskeletal condition characterized by hyper-ir-ritable myofascial trigger points, taut muscle bands, and referred pain patterns. Although typically considered a musculoskeletal disorder, recent evidence reveals its high prevalence in patients with neurological diseases, where altered neural control, abnormal biomechanics, and central sensitization contribute to its development. MPS represents a crucial yet overlooked contributor to chronic pain in neurological disorders. It is frequently under-diagnosed in neurological diseases like stroke, Parkin-son’s disease, multiple sclerosis and spinal cord injury due to symptom overlap with spasticity, neuro-pathic pain and dystonia. Accurate identification through clinical palpation of taut bands, reproduction of referred pain, and local twitch response is essential. Integrating targeted myofascial treatments such as dry needling, manual therapy, and therapeutic exercise into multidisciplinary neurorehabilitation can significantly improve pain relief, mobility, and quality of life. Future research should employ advanced imaging, electromyography, and artificial intelligence tools to enhance early detection and personal-ized treatment planning. This chapter reviews the underlying mechanisms, clinical presentation, and management strategies of MPS across major neurological conditions. Special emphasis was placed on pathophysiological links, diagnostic challenges, and integration of myofascial interventions into neurorehabilitation protocols.