Trigger Point Massage

Trigger point release is a pain-relief technique used at HealthPoint to alleviate muscle spasms and cramping. It is very similar to the eastern body-work technique of acupressure, itself a corollary of acupuncture.

Trigger points are tender areas or spasms where muscles have been aggravated or damaged. The spasms are partly maintained by nervous system feedback (pain-spasm-pain) cycle. They are often associated with decreased range of motion, weakness in the affected muscle group, and decreased ability of the muscle to stretch. Trigger points can active or latent (the latter are pain free until pressed). Both create a local twitch response when pressed.

Trigger points generally occur in more than one location and cause referred pain (away from the actual trigger point) in predictable, specific areas called ‘pain reference zones.’ The referred pain is often described as dull, aching, and deep, and it can be constant or occur off and on. Manipulating a trigger point elicits referred pain and often slight nausea.

Active trigger points may cause ‘satellite’ (i.e., secondary) trigger points in a related reference zone due to the increased stress to the involved muscle groups.

The goals of treatment are to reduce spasm and encourage new blood flow into the affected area. Spasms reduce or inhibit fresh, oxygenated blood flow to the affected region (ischemia), thereby exacerbating symptoms. Pressure is applied to trigger points, for a short time (between about 7 to 10 seconds per point), eliciting momentary discomfort but ultimately relief.

Enter your content here