What Is Trigger Point Therapy?

Trigger point therapy is a form of massage that helps to relieve pain and speed up recovery from injury. The neuromuscular therapy also helps to correct muscular imbalances. During treatment, physiotherapists stretch the muscles and apply pressure to relieve tightness.

Trigger point therapy helps to relieve muscle tension by focusing on the problem area (knot). It allows the muscles to function at an optimal level. Learn more about trigger point therapy.

Understanding Trigger Point Therapy

A trigger point is an area of the muscle prone to pain and stiffness. When the bands of muscle and fascia tissue become rigid, it causes trigger points. The condition restricts blood flow to the muscle tissue, creating a state of metabolic crisis.

When the pressure-sensitive area experiences pain and tension, it limits the range of motion, making it hard to perform daily activities. Trigger point therapy applies pressure, reprogramming the neuromuscular system to reduce pain.

Who Needs Trigger Point Therapy

When a muscle is injured, you experience inflammation, which the body identifies as causing pain. You react by protecting the muscle to prevent more damage. Trigger point therapy helps to promote healing by reducing inflammation.

Athletes and other active individuals can benefit from muscle therapy. It is beneficial for:

Muscle tightness.
Muscle injury.
Repetitive strain injury.
Carpal tunnel syndrome.

Types of Trigger Points

Trigger points can occur in any part of the body but are more common in the back, shoulders, neck, and hips. Anyone can get them, but some people are more susceptible and experience more discomfort than others.

Types of trigger points are active, passive, and satellite. The active ones are painful to the touch and can cause pain in other body areas. Passive trigger points may not be painful to the touch but cause pain in other body areas. Satellite trigger points are like active ones but are less painful.

Risk of Developing Trigger Points

If you experience a reduced range of motion, muscle tightness, fatigue, or pain, it could be due to a trigger point. The pain varies in individuals, with some people experiencing a dull ache, while others feel a sharp pain.

Pain can radiate from one point to other parts of the body. Some factors can increase the risk of developing the condition. They include poor posture, tight muscles, muscle injury or overuse, too much activity or inactivity, and a stressful lifestyle.

Benefits of Trigger Point Therapy

Trigger point therapy has several benefits, including:

It promotes better circulation.
Helps to reduce stress and tension.
Increases flexibility and mobility.
Improves energy levels.
Helps to improve sleep.
Helps to treat headaches.

There are various forms of trigger point therapy techniques. They include manual trigger point therapy, spray and stretch, trigger point injections, dry needling, and trigger point pressure release. A physical therapist or chiropractor will examine your condition to determine the best technique for you.

The specialist will ask about your overall health, discomfort, and level of activity. It is necessary to know that the therapy might not be effective for everyone. Some people experience pain or discomfort when pressure is applied to sensitive muscle areas. If you suffer from muscle pain or reduced range of motion, you may need therapy.

For more on trigger point therapy, visit Campion Chiropractic Clinic. Our office is in College Station, Texas. Call (979) 464-4400 to book an appointment today.