# Myofascial pain of the face and neck
Myofascial pain is a chronic pain condition that affects the muscles and their fasciae (envelopes). The patient often complains of local and dull pain which worsens on palpation, weakness of the involved muscle(s), and sometimes radiation to nearby areas.
The cause of the phenomenon is unknown. The diagnosis of the disorder is based on patient history and a comprehensive clinical examination. X-rays are taken to rule out other pathologies. Diagnosing the disorder can be challenging because the characteristics of the pain may overlap with other pain conditions such as inflammation of the temporomandibular joint and nerve pain in the facial area. The recommended treatment is usually multi-modal and includes changing harmful habits, physical therapy (both self-exercises and guided physiotherapy), occlusal dental treatment (correction of teeth bite), medications, biofeedback, Botox injections, and more.