Knots

What are Trigger Points?

Trigger points (TRP's) are areas of tenderness in a muscle. There are two basic types of trigger points: active and latent.

Active trigger points cause muscular pain and will refer pain and tenderness to another area of the body when pressure is applied.

Latent trigger points only exhibit pain when compressed; they do not refer pain to other areas of the body. Latent TRPs are believed to be one of the causes of stiff joints and restrict range of motion. Trigger points or Tender points may be associated with myofascial pain syndromes or fibromyalgia. TRP's are very common. They are also referred to as muscle knots.

TRP's differ from acupressure points. Acupressure points are concentrations of energy or blockages of the body's energy pathways. TRP's are physical phenomena that can be felt by touch. The pain caused by trigger points may be the biggest cause of disability and loss of time in the workplace.

What Causes Trigger Points?

Trigger points have several causes. Some common causes of trigger points are: an injury sustained in a fall or accident, poor posture, or overexertion of muscle.

What is the Purpose of Trigger Point Therapy?

The purpose of trigger point therapy is to eliminate pain. After several treatments, the swelling and stiffness of neuromuscular pain is reduced, range of motion is increased, tension is relieved, and circulation, flexibility and coordination are improved.

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