Trigger Point Therapy

Trigger point therapy consists of alternating levels of concentrated pressure on the areas of muscle spasm. This concentrated pressure is applied for 10 to 60 seconds to effectively alleviate muslce spasms. Trigger point massage uses levels of concentrated pressure on muslce trigger points. Trigger points are formed when the fascia gets tight from overuse or injury. Fascia is a connective tissue that wraps every organ, vessel, bone, nerve, and every muscle. During a normal trigger point therapy session, the tissue is warmed up with gentle stretching strokes. This prepares the tissue for deeper work and helps the therapist determine what areas to focus on. Once the area is prepared the therapist will begin using deeper strokes. Eventually the therapist will focus on a singular spot, the trigger point. The therapist will hold or knead the spot for up to a minute in order to release the trigger point. During this hold the patient should practice deep breathing and focus on relaxing the area. If at any time the hold is too uncomfortable the patient is encouraged to speak up. The therapist will then use a lighter pressure, making it easier to relax the muscle. Open dialogue during sessions is important to control the pressure and result in a trigger points release.