What is myofascial trigger point therapy?
Trigger point therapy involves stimulating myofascial (muscle and connective tissue) trigger points that often refer pain sensations to other parts of the body. This means pain is experienced in areas located away from the trigger point. The ‘referred pain’ is often dull, aching, or deep. A problem with a trigger point in the back can result in shoulder pain for example. Trigger point therapy employs manual compression of the trigger point after it is located within the muscle fiber. This therapy does not involve the use of lotions or oils. Instead pain patterns are identified, and the involved muscles are treated. Muscle range of motion testing, postural evaluation, active stretching, and myofascial release are some of the techniques and/or processes involved with trigger point therapy.
