Trigger Point

Effective Relief for Muscle Knots and Chronic Pain

What Is Trigger Point Therapy?

Trigger point therapy is a targeted manual technique used to identify and treat trigger points—tight, sensitive areas within muscles that can cause localized and referred pain. These are often referred to as muscle knots, though the term "knot" is not a precise medical definition. The correct term is myofascial trigger point: a hypersensitive, palpable nodule in a taut band of skeletal muscle.

How Trigger Point Therapy Works

This therapy involves applying firm, sustained pressure directly to the trigger point. While this can be uncomfortable or even painful during treatment, it's typically described as a “good pain”—a releasing, therapeutic discomfort that can bring lasting relief.

Although some clients feel immediate improvement, others may notice results the following day. Multiple sessions are often needed to fully resolve chronic or stubborn trigger points.

What Are Trigger Points?

Trigger points form when muscle fibers contract and fail to release. This can happen due to stress, overuse, poor posture, or injury. These irritated spots restrict blood flow, cause tightness, and can radiate pain to other parts of the body (known as referred pain).

Common signs of trigger points include:

• Localized muscle pain or tightness

• Decreased range of motion

• Tenderness when touched

• Pain that radiates to other areas (e.g., a trigger point in the shoulder causing neck or arm pain)

Types of Massage for Trigger Point Relief

1. Trigger Point Therapy

This focused massage technique targets specific trigger points using deep, sustained pressure to release muscle tension and improve circulation in the affected area.

2. Myofascial Release

This method uses gentle, sustained pressure on the fascia, the connective tissue surrounding muscles, to release tension and restrictions in the body. It's particularly effective for chronic pain and stiffness.

3. Deep Tissue Massage

Deep tissue massage targets deeper layers of muscle and fascia. While it addresses general muscle tension, it can also incorporate trigger point therapy to treat stubborn knots and tight muscles.

Other Treatments That Support Trigger Point Therapy

Trigger point therapy can be combined with other modalities for improved outcomes, especially in chronic or complex cases:

• Acupuncture – Uses fine needles to release muscle tension and improve energy flow.

• Cupping therapy – Applies suction to lift tissue and increase blood flow.

• Trigger point injections – Involves injecting a small amount of anesthetic (and sometimes corticosteroids) directly into the trigger point.

Self-Massage Techniques for Trigger Points

Self-care is a vital part of long-term relief. These self-massage techniques can help you manage and prevent trigger points between professional treatments:

1. Finger Pressure

Use your fingers or thumbs to apply firm, sustained pressure directly on the knot for 30–60 seconds.

2. Tennis Ball or Foam Roller

Place a tennis ball or foam roller on the floor (or against a wall) and gently roll your body over it, applying pressure to hard-to-reach areas like the back, glutes, or hips.

3. Massage Tools

Tools like the Thera Cane, massage balls, massage sticks, and massage guns allow for deep, targeted pressure on specific trigger points.

Preventing Trigger Points

Preventing trigger points is just as important as treating them. Here are a few practices to reduce the risk of developing painful muscle knots:

• Regular massage therapy

• Daily stretching routines

• Maintaining good posture

• Staying hydrated

• Taking breaks from repetitive movements

• Managing stress effectively

Book a Session Today

If you’re dealing with persistent muscle pain, tension, or stiffness, trigger point therapy may offer the relief you’ve been looking for. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or learn more about how this powerful technique can help restore comfort and function to your body.

FEES

60 Minute Massage — $120
90 Minute Massage — $150

Lymphatic Drainage Massage Therapists