Why does the pain occur away from the trigger point?
The referred sensations do not follow known neurological pathways. There are different theories: one in very simple terms is analogous to peripheral neuropathy, where nerves for the toe are wired to the “toe” area of your brain, and no matter where the 3 foot long “toe” nerve is affected along its length, pain is felt in the toe. Other examples of referred pain are “brain freeze” after drinking a cold liquid, and “phantom pain” in an amputated limb. Common referral patterns have been mapped out by researchers such as Janet Travell, but sometimes unusual or unpredictable trigger points referrals can be experienced. One of the current theories about trigger points suggests that trigger point referrals are facilitated through our energy meridian system. Trigger Point referral will cause increased local nervous system activity, which results in hard, tight muscles and decreased circulation. This decreased circulation, called ischemia, may cause additional trigger points, and could eventual
