Understanding Trigger Point Therapy

Trigger Point Therapy is a key technique Remedial Therapist and other physical health practitioners use in practice to help relieve muscle pain and tension. Together with other Remedial techniques I use, my patients have found it incredibly effective.

It involves applying direct pressure to specific tender points known as “trigger points” to reduce tension and relieve muscle pain. But what exactly are these trigger points?

I often get asked what are trigger points and how they creates.

Trigger points are often referred to as “knots” in the muscles. Physiologically, they are small, rigid areas within the muscle fibers that can be painful to touch and may refer discomfort to other parts of the body. I frequently see patients who are surprised to discover how these knots can contribute to their overall pain and restrictions.

What Causes Trigger Points?

The formation of trigger points is not entirely understood, but they are generally believed to arise from:

• Overuse or overload of the muscle

• Incorrect or prolonged posture

• Trauma or injury

• Muscle fatigue

• Sudden or prolonged contractions

During normal muscle contraction, muscle fibers contract and relax effectively. However, if a contraction does not release, the muscle fibers can become stuck together, losing elasticity. This results in a knot that can decrease muscle strength and elasticity, increasing the risk of fiber rupture.

Types of Trigger Points

Trigger points are classified as:

• Active Trigger Points: Cause constant pain, tenderness, and may restrict range of motion, leading to weakness and referred pain. They can elicit a local twitch response when stimulated.

• Latent Trigger Points: Painful only upon palpation and do not cause constant discomfort.

The Benefits of Trigger Point Therapy

Usually performed by a Remedial Massage Therapist or Physiotherapist, Trigger Point Therapy is recognized as a highly effective treatment for pain relief, particularly for chronic pain. The therapist identifies muscles with tension and restriction and applies consistent pressure using fingers, elbows, or thumbs for durations of 10 to 30 seconds, taking care to respect the client’s pain threshold.

It's particularly beneficial for conditions related to muscle pain, including:

• Back Pain

• Neck Pain

• Shoulder Pain/Frozen Shoulder/Shoulder Impingement

• Tennis Elbow

• Golfer’s Elbow

• Sciatica

• Headaches and Migraines

• Joint Pain

• Hip Pain

• Reduced Range of Motion

It is essential to consider Trigger Point Therapy when pain begins to emerge. Muscles with active trigger points are often weaker and unable to move through their full range of motion, which may result in other muscles compensating for the compromised muscle. This compensation can cause secondary trigger points to develop. Addressing trigger points not only relieves pain but also restores proper muscle function, promoting overall well-being and it help stopping this cycle of pain!

One of my goals is to help you break that cycle and find comfort in your body again.

Let’s Get Started!

If you've been experiencing muscle pain or discomfort, I’d love to help you through it with Trigger Point Therapy. It’s all about finding that connection and working together to bring you relief.

Ready to take the next step and experience relief?

Book today your Remedial Therapy session and let’s embark on this healing journey together!!!