Abstract
Background. Cervical disorders are common conditions that can result in substantial pain and disability. Myofascial pain syndrome is considered one of the most common sources of musculoskeletal pain. Given the increasing prevalence and socioeconomic burden of cervical spine disorders, as well as the potential role of myofascial pain syndrome in the development or exacerbation of symptoms, understanding the association between these conditions may contribute to more appropriate assessment and treatment strategies.
Methods. A systematic review was conducted by searching Web of Science, Embase, PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar for English-language studies published from database inception to October 2025. The search strategy included the keywords: Neck Pain, Myofascial Pain Syndromes, Myofascial Trigger Points, Prevalence, and Incidence. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal checklist.
Results. Of 3,509 identified records, 14 studies were included in the qualitative synthesis. Myofascial trigger points were prevalent across most cervical spine disorders. Active trigger points were more frequently reported in patients with radiculopathy, whiplash, and mechanical neck pain, while prevalence reached 100% in some of the studies of chronic non-specific neck pain.
Conclusion. The findings of this systematic review indicate that trigger points are highly prevalent across various cervical disorders. Active trigger points were frequently associated with greater pain intensity and functional disability.
Practical Implications. The findings support consideration of (Myofascial trigger point, MTrP) assessment as one the clinical evaluation of patients with cervical spine disorders.