What Are Trigger Points?

The concept of the trigger point starts with myofascial pain syndrome. This ailment produces discomfort in your muscles and occasionally in seemingly unrelated areas of your body when pressure is applied to sensitive places in your muscles. This is called a trigger point.
 

A trigger point is a highly sensitive area that can be felt as a nodule in the fascia of the musculoskeletal muscles' taut bands. It typically reacts with an unlocalized pain when the muscle is contracted. Usually, this disease develops after muscles have been repeatedly contracted. 
 

Repetitive actions from occupations or hobbies and muscle strain brought on by stress can all contribute to this. Jump sign, local sensitivity, local twitch reaction, and referred pain can all be brought on by the muscles' contractions.
 

Symptoms of Trigger Points

• Persistent or worsening pain
• A muscle that is in deep aching pain
• Inability to sleep because of pain
• A sensitive knot in the muscles

 

Characteristics of Trigger Points

Jump Sign

The typical behavioral reaction of a trigger point under pressure is the jump sign. The sharp discomfort frequently catches people off guard. A response that seems out of proportion to the pressure applied causes them to flinch or scream. 
 

They jerk the head, the shoulder, or another portion of the body that cannot be felt spontaneously. Thus, a jump sign depicts a trigger point's excessive tenderness. This symptom has been regarded as pathognomonic for trigger points.
 

Referred Pain

Referred pain, also referred to as reflective pain, is felt at a distance from the area where the muscle contraction or compression occurs. Pain can be replicated and does not follow nerve roots, myotomes, or dermatomes.Myofascial trigger point pain displays a unique, recognizable, and consistent pattern that remains consistent regardless of variations in gender or race.
 

 Risk Factors 

1. Muscle overuse or misuse: Repetitive movements or sustained muscle contractions can lead to the development of trigger points. This often occurs in individuals who perform activities that involve prolonged periods of sitting, typing, or lifting heavy objects without proper rest or posture.

2. Muscle trauma or injury: Accidents, falls, sports injuries, or any form of trauma to the muscles can create trigger points. This can be due to direct impact or from the muscles compensating for the injury, leading to imbalances and tension.

3. Poor posture: Prolonged periods of poor posture, such as slouching while sitting or standing, can cause muscle imbalances and strain, leading to the formation of trigger points.

4. Emotional stress: Stress and anxiety can cause muscle tension and contraction, which may contribute to the development of trigger points, particularly in the neck, shoulders, and upper back.

5. Muscle fatigue: Overexertion of muscles without proper rest and recovery can lead to muscle fatigue, which increases the risk of trigger point formation.

6. Nutritional deficiencies: Lack of adequate nutrients, especially magnesium and vitamin D, which are essential for muscle function and relaxation, can predispose individuals to trigger points.

7. Dehydration: Inadequate hydration can lead to muscle dehydration and increased susceptibility to trigger point development.

8. Poor ergonomics: Improper workstation setup, such as poorly positioned computer monitors or chairs that do not provide adequate support, can contribute to muscle strain and trigger point formation, especially in the neck, shoulders, and back.

9. Chronic illnesses or conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as fibromyalgia, myofascial pain syndrome, and chronic fatigue syndrome, can increase the risk of trigger point development due to underlying muscle dysfunction and heightened sensitivity to pain.

10. Poor sleep quality: Inadequate sleep or disrupted sleep patterns can impair muscle recovery and repair, increasing the likelihood of trigger point formation.

 

Treatment

Trigger Point Therapy and/or Myofascial Release Therapy:

Trigger point therapy and myofascial release are related but distinct forms of manual therapy, each with its own focus and techniques. While they share similarities and can be used together in some cases, they target different aspects of musculoskeletal dysfunction.
 

Here's a breakdown of the differences between trigger point therapy and myofascial release:

Focus:

• Trigger Point Therapy: Primarily focuses on identifying and releasing specific points of tension within muscle tissue called trigger points. These trigger points are often palpable as localized areas of tightness, tenderness, and restricted movement.

• Myofascial Release: Focuses on releasing tension and restrictions within the fascia, the connective tissue that surrounds and supports muscles, organs, and other structures in the body. Myofascial release aims to improve the mobility, flexibility, and overall health of the fascia.

 

Techniques:

• Trigger Point Therapy: Involves applying direct pressure to trigger points using fingers, thumbs, elbows, or specialized tools to release muscle tension and alleviate pain. Techniques may include sustained pressure, compression, and stretching

• Myofascial Release: Utilizes gentle, sustained pressure and stretching techniques to release adhesions, restrictions, and tightness within the fascia. Techniques may include slow, sustained stretching, skin rolling, or applying gentle traction to the fascial layers.

 

Treatment Approach:

• Trigger Point Therapy: Typically focuses on localized areas of muscle tension and pain, addressing specific trigger points and associated referral patterns. Treatment is often targeted and specific to the identified trigger points.

• Myofascial Release: Takes a broader approach, addressing larger areas of fascial restriction and tension throughout the body. Treatment may involve working along fascial planes or releasing restrictions in multiple areas to improve overall fascial mobility and function.

 

Application:

• Trigger Point Therapy: Commonly used to address muscular pain, stiffness, and dysfunction caused by trigger points, which can develop due to overuse, injury, or other factors.

• Myofascial Release: Used to address a wide range of musculoskeletal issues, including chronic pain conditions, postural imbalances, mobility restrictions, and scar tissue adhesions.

While trigger point therapy and myofascial release are distinct modalities, they can complement each other in a comprehensive treatment approach. Therapists may use a combination of techniques based on the individual's specific needs and goals to optimize outcomes and improve overall musculoskeletal health.
 

For more about trigger points and how to treat trigger point pain, call Atlantic Chiropractic Associates at our offices in Milford, Georgetown, or Lewes, Delaware. Call (302) 309-9900 to book an appointment today.