What Is Trigger Point Therapy?

The word myofascial refers to the muscle tissue (myo) and the connective tissue that is in and around it (fascia). When injured, overused, or under stress, muscle and connective tissue can form trigger points (contracted knots of muscle fibers) that cause pain and dysfunction.

Trigger point therapy utilizes a unique treatment protocol for the elimination of this pain. An essential aspect of treatment is the identification and elimination of referred pain, which occurs when trigger points in one muscle cause pain elsewhere in the body.

What to expect in a session?

Sessions begin with an initial evaluation using postural analysis, range of motion tests, and the identification of perpetuating factors to identify which muscles harbor trigger points and require attention. Treatment includes manual massage and compression techniques to eliminate trigger points in these muscles. Following manual treatment, we teach patients self-care techniques such as targeted stretching and self-massage to aid in the healing process.

What to expect after a session?

Many patients experience relief from pain after one or two treatments. For others, several treatments are needed before their pain starts to subside. It is not uncommon for patients to experience some soreness or fatigue for one to two days after treatment. This usually resolves after the first few sessions.

Returning to normal activities without pain is accelerated by following the individualized self-care program provided by your therapist. Lasting results will be achieved by working with your therapist to eliminate underlying perpetuating factors, self-treating your trigger points, and re-educating your muscles.