By eliminating factors that contribute to the musculoskeletal pain, patients with myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) have reported vast improvement and prevented recurrent activation of trigger points. This can be done by:

• Correcting physical asymmetries. Some people are born with gait disturbances, such as one leg that is slightly longer than the other. Leg-length discrepancy due to an anatomically shorter limb or a locked sacroiliac joint can also lead to significant myofascial back pain. The asymmetry caused by these anatomic variations may be corrected with the use of heel lifts, dynamic insoles or buttock lifts.
  
  
• Using good posture. Good posture minimizes stress and improves efficiency in the use of muscles. Correcting poor body posture and alignment is an important component of treating patients with MPS.
  
  
• Proper ergonomics and body mechanics. Certain jobs and work activities (e.g., data entry, construction, assembly-line workers) are associated with an increased risk of developing cumulative trauma that leads to musculoskeletal disorders, including MPS. Modifying the workplace or the patient’s work habits is important in reducing pain and discomfort. However, in some cases patients may need to change careers.
  
  
• Nutrition. Getting proper nutrition ensures that the body has what it needs to function and heal. Deficiencies in vitamins C, B1, B6, B12 and folic acid have been linked to MPS. In addition, eating a well-balanced diet is believed to help improve symptoms of pain, depression, fatigue and headaches.
  
  
• Relaxation techniques. Psychological stress may aggravate MPS symptoms by activating TrPs. Relaxation and stress management techniques may be employed to manage stress and pain. Deep breathing, visual imagery and relaxing audio may be used as effective tools for relaxation.
  
  
• Exercise. Regular exercise has been shown to decrease pain and increase endurance and is essential for long-term recovery of MPS. A rehabilitation program should include postural and strengthening exercises as well as aerobic conditioning. Posture-enhancing exercises improve musculoskeletal alignment, thereby enhancing balance and promoting relaxation. Strengthening and aerobic conditioning improve not only strength and endurance, but also blood circulation in the muscles.
  
  Muscle soreness may be minimized with relaxation, heat, steady breathing and drinking adequate water. Stretching prior and after exercising is also extremely important to lengthen muscles and maintain their length, help muscles relax, improve ability to move muscles and decrease pain.
  
  
• Limiting or avoiding alcohol consumption and cigarette smoking.
  
  
• Getting enough rest. Striving for restful sleep is important in the treatment of MPS. Sleep deprivation can be a major factor in the continuation of musculoskeletal pain. Patients are encouraged to get seven to eight hours of sleep each night. A healthy sleep regimen is crucial to improving sleep and includes going to bed at the same time every night, avoiding exercise three hours before going to bed and limiting caffeine and sugar intake before bedtime.