Chronic myofascial pain syndrome (cMPS) is the most common form of chronic musculoskeletal pain and a significant global burden of disease. Despite its prevalence, the pathogenesis of cMPS is still poorly understood. Current prevailing theories suggest that cMPS arises from a local mechanical injury to the affected muscle(s), however, this paradigm fails to reconcile several key clinical observations. This presentation critically examines the current prevailing theories and clinical observations surrounding cMPS, highlighting limitations of conventional injury-based models and the need for a paradigm shift in the field. It traces the evolution of early mechanical injury models to emerging neurogenic hypotheses aiming to bridge the gap between theory and practice. By directing future investigations towards mechanism-based approaches, we can promote a mechanism-based paradigm shift that will pave the way for novel diagnostic and treatment strategies with the potential to significantly improve patient outcomes and reduce the global burden of cMPS.

Dr John Z Srbely DC PhD graduated from the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College (1992) and certified in Clinical Acupuncture (2000).

He received his PhD in biomechanics and neurophysiology in 2008 from the University of Guelph and is a full time Associate Professor with the Department of Human Health and Nutritional Science (HHNS), College of Biological Sciences, University of Guelph (Guelph, Ontario, Canada).

He held a Canadian Chiropractic Research Foundation Research Chair in Spine Mechanics and Neurophysiology (2008-2013).

He is currently the Director of the HHNS Neuromuscular Health and Chronic Pain clinical-research facility where he is pursuing his primary research interests in the study of the neurophysiologic mechanisms and management of chronic pain. The central theme of his research program is the study of central sensitization and neurogenic inflammation, and their role in the clinical manifestation of chronic musculoskeletal disease including myofascial pain, osteoarthritis, and chronic degenerative joint/spine disease.

This webinar will be live on Zoom Wednesday 26th March 2025 7.30pm AEDT.

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The recording of the presentation will be made available for everyone who has registered for this webinar, after it is delivered live, via our online learning platform. You will have lifetime access to this.