Myofascial Pain and Trigger Points

A trigger point is essentially a tender "knot" within a taut band of shortened muscle tissue. These can cause pain both at the trigger point itself and in other areas at a distance through referred pain patterns.

How Trigger Points Cause Pain

The upper trapezius commonly develops trigger points that cause referred pain to the head and restrict neck movement. But trigger points anywhere in the body can refer pain to seemingly unrelated areas. For example, trigger points in the gluteus minimus around the hip may produce leg pain that resembles, or accompanies, sciatic nerve compression.

What Causes Trigger Points?

Muscle stress creates trigger points through either sudden trauma (falls, accidents, improper lifting) or prolonged low-level tension from poor posture, joint degeneration, or emotional or metabolic strain. The physiological mechanism involves continuous neurotransmitter release causing self-sustaining contractions at the neuromuscular junction. The resulting muscle tension can reduce local circulation, causing premature fatigue and further tension, creating a self-perpetuating cycle.

Treatment Options

Trigger Point Dry Needling (Medical Acupuncture): Needles target the hyperirritable muscle band to elicit a "twitch response" that deactivates the trigger point while improving local blood flow. This is often more effective than massage for deep trigger points that can't be adequately reached by surface pressure.

Trigger Point Massage: Short, slow, deep strokes perpendicular to muscle fibres with minimal oil maximise tissue contact. Specific massage tools can enhance precision.

Myofascial Release: Gliding strokes with oil stretch muscles and their fascia lengthwise, addressing the broader fascial restrictions that often accompany trigger points.

Our practitioners incorporate these techniques into standard sessions or as part of specialised myotherapy treatment. Call us on 020 8506 1000.