Identifying and injecting myofascial trigger points.

Myofascial pain syndrome is characterized by the presence of discreet, hypersensitive nodules known as trigger points. A myofascial trigger point is a hyperirritable locus within a taut band of skeletal muscle, located in the muscle and/or fascia (1). They are palpable within muscles as cord-like bands within a sharply circumscribed area of extreme tenderness. Trigger points are found most commonly in muscles involved in postural support.

When groin pain is more than 'just a strain': navigating a broad differential.

Most groin pain results from musculotendinous injuries, but not all groin pain signifies simply a pulled muscle. The pain can stem from one or more musculoskeletal or nonmusculoskeletal origins, such as avulsion fracture, osteitis pubis, or hernia. While acute causes are often readily identified, chronic groin pain can present a diagnostic challenge. Paying close attention to the history can help identify acute causes such as strains and avulsion fractures; determining the location and nature of the pain can also help with diagnosis. Conservative treatment is often effective for treatment of acute injuries such as strains and avulsion fractures.