Trigger Point Myotherapy

Introduction

A trigger point is a sensitive or tender point in the muscle that is sore from touch or pressure. It is defined as a hypersensitive nodule within a band of muscle fiber. Trigger points make the muscle spasm painful. Sometimes, the trigger points are so sensitive that they are painful without pressure.

Trigger points are classified into

• Active Trigger Points - These points cause pain even when no pressure is given.

• Latent or Inactive Trigger Points - Points that are painful to press, and the pain is referred to another area.

• Satellite Trigger Points - The area where the latent trigger points refer to the pain.

What Is Trigger Point Myotherapy?

Trigger point myotherapy is a massage technique in which alternating pressure levels are given on the trigger points in a muscle spasm. It is a safe pain management technique physiotherapists use to alleviate muscle pain, correct muscular imbalances, and speed up recovery after injury. It mainly aims to reduce the tension and pain in the muscles. Trigger point: myotherapy is not the cure but an effective pain management therapy.

What Is the Science Behind Trigger Point Myotherapy?

• The cells in the muscle are held together by a protein called collagen.

• When a muscle is injured due to overuse or some other cause, the cells are shortened, pulling the nearby cells along with them. This results in a tight knot in the affected muscle.

• The tension in the tight muscle knot is so high, and the blood circulation has decreased.

• Due to the decreased blood supply, the oxygen and nutrient supply to the tightened muscles is also reduced. This low blood supply leads to a painful trigger point in the muscle.

• Trigger points create a crisis in the muscle, where the painful, tightened muscle requires oxygen and nutrients to heal, but circulation is reduced due to the tightness, resulting in slow healing. This pain-spasm-pain cycle proves to be challenging to interrupt.

• Trigger point myotherapy works by applying pressure to these muscle knots. The pressure applied causes the cell tension to release, raising the nitric oxide level in these tightened muscles. This increase in the chemical causes small capillaries to open up, thus increasing circulation. Trigger-point myotherapy produces soreness and pain initially, which is good for healing.

What Are the Conditions in Which Trigger Point Myotherapy Can Be Done?

Trigger point myotherapy is useful in many conditions, like:

• Muscle injury and tightness.

• Repetitive muscle strains.

• Carpal tunnel syndrome.

• Shoulder and knee pain.

• Sciatica.

• Herniated discs.

• Nerve disorders.

• Fibromyalgia.

• Myofascial pain syndrome.

• Headaches and migraines.

What Are the Different Methods of Trigger Point Myotherapy?

Trigger point myotherapy aims to manage the trigger points and help in healing. Trigger point myotherapy is done using different methods.

Manual Trigger Point Myotherapy

It is a manual technique for treating trigger points. Pressure is given using a hand, finger, tennis ball, or foam roller. This method is painful and uncomfortable, but it is good for alleviating symptoms. Pressure is applied for 20 to 30 seconds and then released. Manual trigger point myotherapy is a safe and effective technique.

There are four techniques in manual therapy.

• Techniques done directly in trigger points (Techniques I and II).

• Fascia techniques (Techniques III and IV).

Technique I

It is also known as ischemic compression. Local pressure is given to the trigger points. The blood circulation is cut off when the trigger point is compressed for 30 seconds. Then, upon release, the blood rushes back, increasing the blood supply.

Technique II

This technique uses ischemic compression and manual stretching of the tight muscles. It is very effective. Less pressure is required if the trigger point is treated accurately.

Technique III

This is done in a larger area, usually with the palm. This technique improves the mobility of the connective tissue and the fascia, thus improving intramuscular mobility.

Technique IV

Similar to the previous technique, this also focuses on connective tissue and fascia. In addition, this technique improves intermuscular mobility (between adjacent muscles).

Dry Needling Technique

• It is a type of acupuncture therapy in which very thin needles have penetrated the skin to stimulate the underlying muscles.

• It is very effective in releasing trigger points and tension.

• The inserted needle elicits a twitch response, which prompts the muscle to relax and contract, eliminating the tension.

• Dry needling also reduces the pain after the treatment, and dependence on pain medication is also reduced. It also helps in increasing the blood and nutrient supply.

• Sometimes, dizziness may occur after dry needling treatment.

Spray and Stretch

This method stretches the muscle group after spraying a surface anesthetic. The spray is applied to the skin, causing discomfort due to trigger points. This topical spray helps inhibit the pain momentarily while stretching, allowing the muscle to relax and loosen the trigger point.

Trigger Point Injections

• It is an effective treatment for myofascial pain syndrome.

• Trigger point injections relieve tension and muscle pain by injecting a local anesthetic into the trigger points.

• The local anesthetic interrupts the impulse between the brain and the muscle, which helps relax the muscles and relieve pain.

What Are the Benefits of Trigger Point Myotherapy?

Trigger point myotherapy is a great alternative to conventional pain management techniques.

Some of the benefits of trigger point myotherapy include:

• Reduced Tension and Stress - Trigger point myotherapy relaxes the muscles and releases the knots in the muscles. It can also provide a sense of overall relaxation.

• Better Circulation - Tight muscles impede blood circulation. Trigger point myotherapy helps the contracted muscles relax and improves blood circulation.

• Improved Flexibility and Mobility - If the muscles are stiff, there is difficulty in moving freely. Stiff muscles make daily activities challenging. Trigger point myotherapy reduces stiffness and improves the mobility and flexibility of the individual.

• Better Sleep - Tight muscles cause pain and discomfort that may lead to difficulty sleeping. Trigger point myotherapy improves sleep quality by relaxing the muscles and eliminating discomfort.

• Relief from headaches.

• Higher Energy Levels - Tight and tense muscles drain an individual's energy by making them work harder to overcome the stiffness.

Conclusion

Trigger point myotherapy can be tried if one has painful muscle problems. It is one of the best options for treating pain conservatively. By targeting specific trigger points within the muscles, this therapy aims to reduce pain and restore functionality without the need for invasive procedures or reliance on medication. Whether addressing chronic discomfort or acute injuries, trigger point myotherapy presents a valuable opportunity for individuals to manage their pain. Its non-invasive nature and focus on targeted relief make it a viable choice for those seeking conservative yet impactful interventions.