Trigger points also known as ‘knots’ or ‘nodules’, are localised, tender spots within the muscles and fascia (web of connective tissue). However, they can also be found within tendons and ligaments. Trigger points can occur in anyone, at any age. The main cause of trigger points is muscle injury or continual muscle stress, however there are many other causes including:
- Ageing
- Lack of exercise – commonly in sedentary individuals between ages 27 – 55 years old (45% being male)
- Bad posture
- Muscle overuse and respective micro-trauma – such as weightlifting
- Chronic stress conditions such as depression, anxiety, psychological stress trauma
- Vitamin deficiencies – vitamin C, D, B; folic acid; iron
- Sleep disturbances
- Joint problems and hypermobility
What Does Trigger Point Release Do?
The trigger point release is a soft tissue treatment that helps to release tense, painful knots in the muscles and fascia. Many different treatments can be applied to trigger points which include sustained pressure, posture and movement correction, electrical stimulation, dry needling and massage.
As a Sports Therapist, the main treatment I use to release trigger points is using a variety of massage and sustained pressure. The sustained pressure is held until the pain has eased, which typically takes between 30 to 90 seconds to release. By sustaining pressure, it stimulates the supraspinal pathway to release inhibitory neurotransmitters. These neurotransmitters then help to break down adhesions and cause a reduction in muscle tone.
The Benefits Of Trigger Point Therapy:
Trigger Point therapy has been proven to be an effective way to relieve pain and tension within the body. If left untreated they can cause restricted range of motion, muscle weakness, muscle hypertonicity, muscle fatigue, induce muscle cramps, become more painful and can make it harder for therapists to release them. This is why trigger point therapy is a successful way of reducing these negative effects. Some of the most notable benefits of trigger point release are:
- Pain reduction – This is the most apparent benefit when releasing a trigger point.
- Improved Circulation – when muscles are tight they can reduce blood flow which can mean a slower recovery rate. A restricted blood flow can also include problems such as increased fatigue and headaches. So by improving circulation, it will have a positive impact on overall energy and well-being levels.
- Improved mobility and flexibility – trigger points make the muscle tighter and weaker which means the muscle loses its normal function. By releasing the trigger point it will reduce the tension meaning the muscle can stretch more pain-free.
- Better sleep – Trigger points can cause pain and discomfort which can make it difficult to fall asleep or find a comfortable position.
- Reduced headaches – frequent headaches can result from muscular pain – typically by trigger points in the neck and upper back due to muscle tension. Especially with increased stress, tension headaches can occur and cause trigger points.
- Improved posture – Knotted muscles in the neck, back and shoulders can cause individuals to slouch and get into positions that ease the pain or discomfort. These positions can lead to noticeably poorer posture.
And these are only some of the benefits that trigger point release has to offer! To learn more, contact us at Walnut Grove.
