September 12, 2025 
 
 Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) is a common condition causing chronic muscle pain, tension, and discomfort in the muscles and surrounding connective tissue, called fascia. At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ in Richland, WA, Dr. Jared Bloxham helps patients manage myofascial pain, TMJ disorders, and related headaches and migraines, offering personalized treatment plans for long-lasting relief.                                                                                     What is Myofascial Pain Syndrome?                                                                                     MPS occurs when sensitive areas in the muscles, known as trigger points, become inflamed or tense. These trigger points—often called muscle knots—can cause:                                                                                                  Localized pain in the affected muscle                                                           Referred pain that spreads to the head, jaw, neck, or face, often contributing to headaches and migraines                                                                                                 Trigger points can be classified as:                                                                                                  Latent Trigger Points: Dormant but can become painful under stress                                                           Active Trigger Points: Cause pain when stimulated                                                           Satellite Trigger Points: Reduce tension when near another trigger point                                                           Secondary Trigger Points: Develop in the same muscle as an active point, increasing discomfort                                                                                                 Signs and Symptoms                                                                                     Myofascial pain and TMJ-related headaches can show up in many ways, including:                                                                                                  Jaw pain, stiffness, or clicking                                                           Facial pain and tenderness                                                           Neck and shoulder tension                                                           Headaches or migraines triggered by jaw or neck strain                                                           Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism)                                                           Reduced jaw mobility                                                                                                 Patients often notice that headaches or migraines worsen after long periods of jaw tension or stress, highlighting the connection between MPS and craniofacial pain.                                                                                     How Myofascial Pain Contributes to TMJ and Headaches                                                                                     Tension in the jaw and surrounding muscles can trigger TMJ disorders, which frequently cause headaches and migraines. Chronic teeth grinding or jaw clenching places extra stress on the temporomandibular joint, resulting in persistent pain that affects daily life, sleep, and overall well-being.                                                                                     Effective Treatments for Myofascial Pain, Headaches, and TMJ                                                                                     At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ, Dr. Jared Bloxham offers a range of conservative, non-surgical treatments for myofascial pain, TMJ, and related headaches or migraines:                                                                                                  Trigger Point Injections: Targeted therapy to relax tight muscles and reduce pain                                                           Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT): Non-invasive treatment to decrease inflammation and promote healing                                                           PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin) Therapy: Supports natural tissue regeneration and joint recovery                                                           Custom TMJ Oral Appliances: Reduce jaw strain, prevent teeth grinding, and alleviate tension headaches                                                           Guided Muscle Exercises: Stretching and strengthening techniques to relieve trigger points and improve function                                                                                                 Each treatment plan is personalized to the patient’s symptoms, targeting both headache relief and TMJ pain relief.                                                                                     Why Early Treatment Matters                                                                                     Ignoring myofascial pain and TMJ-related headaches can lead to:                                                                                                  Worsening headaches or migraines                                                           Chronic jaw and facial pain                                                           Disrupted sleep                                                           Reduced quality of life                                                                                                 Early intervention helps reduce pain, restore proper muscle function, and prevent long-term complications.                                                                                     Take the First Step Toward Relief                                                                                     If you’re experiencing jaw pain, TMJ discomfort, headaches, migraines, or myofascial pain in Richland, Kennewick, Pasco, or surrounding Tri-Cities, WA, contact Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ today. Dr. Jared Bloxham will create a personalized treatment plan to relieve pain, improve sleep, and enhance your quality of life.                                                                                                  📞 Call now to schedule a consultation and start your journey toward headache relief, migraine management, and lasting comfort.                                              (509) 581-4456