What is a Trigger Point?
The first thing to remember here is that the entire body is connected. I discussed this in my blog post about CTT, but to summarize: your body is essentially a vast network held together by connective tissue. And that network allows for communication throughout your body. A trigger point is when a tight area or “muscle knot” communicates pain or discomfort to other parts of your body. This type of pain is called referral pain.
Here’s an example of how a trigger point works: You have a pain in your neck – no pun intended. In your case, this is because a trigger point in your back is referring pain to your neck. Basically, the pain in your neck is a manifestation of problems somewhere further down your spine. Your therapist can begin the session, determine where the source of the pain is coming from, and then work on that area, thereby relieving the pain in your neck. This example seems obvious because you can directly see that your neck is just an extension of your back. But sometimes, the connections can be more subtle.
Myofascial Pain Syndrome
Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS) occurs when you have many trigger points throughout your body. This disorder can mean chronic pain that interrupts your life, causing both your waking and sleeping hours to be filled with pain and discomfort. MPS often develops due to repetitive movements or muscle injury. It could also be a side effect of chronic stress.
According to some doctors, MPS can also evolve into fibromyalgia over time, another chronic condition that sends widespread pain throughout the body. Essentially, as the disorder goes unchecked, your body becomes more sensitive to pain signals and your pain continually increases.
Trigger Point Therapy
Luckily, there are options – both for chronic, all-over pain sufferers and those whose pain is less widespread. Trigger Point Therapy – also referred to as Neuromuscular Therapy – uses specialized, deep tissue massage to aid in Trigger Point pain relief. By releasing constricted muscles, pressure can be removed from other muscles that are forced to compensate. Though Neuromuscular Therapy isn’t necessarily an off-switch for pain, it can help eliminate it and restore range of motion over time. Many clients experience great relief right from the start.
If you’re interested in learning more about Trigger Point Therapy or think it could benefit you, please feel free to reach out to me or bring it up at your next appointment. As a therapist, my goal is to educate as much as it is to relieve pain, so don’t be hesitant about asking questions. And I’ll see you at your next session!