Trigger Point Therapy

Trigger Point Therapy (TPT) is used to reduce pain caused by tightness in muscles or knots in the fascia. Fascia is the tissue that is responsible for enveloping and supporting your muscles. When a muscle is injured or overused, knotting and tightness occur causing a point of tenderness usually called a trigger point. TPT can be incorporated into any sports recovery session or therapeutic massage.

What are the Benefits of Trigger Point Therapy?

Trigger point therapy (TPT) focuses on detecting and releasing stubborn knots and tightness in your body by applying pressure and holding it for a short period of time.

The general goal is to achieve complete muscle relaxation by applying pressure to these specific trigger points, which helps do the following:

Improve Circulation

When muscles are tight, they can restrict blood flow, which can lead to a slew of problems like headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. Trigger point therapy can help to release these tight muscles and, thus, improve circulation.

Pain Relief

One of the most significant benefits of TPT is pain relief. By addressing the trigger points responsible for the pain, the massage therapist can help alleviate pain in the area and reduce inflammation.

Increase Flexibility

Stiff, tight muscles can make it difficult to move freely. Trigger point therapy can help increase your range of motion by releasing tension in these muscles. This makes it an excellent therapy for athletes or anyone looking to improve their flexibility.

Improve Posture

Tight muscles can pull the body out of alignment, leading to poor posture. TPT can help release the tight muscles and improve your posture. Moreover, improving your posture can help to reduce the likelihood of injuries.

Trigger points recur for people with chronic conditions like fibromyalgia, and regular sessions are ideal for managing the associated pain and muscle tension.

Trigger Point Therapy FAQs

Is Trigger Point Therapy painful?

It should not be. While pressure is applied to tight tissues and muscle knots to release tension, it may be momentarily uncomfortable, but should not be painful. It is important to communicate your expectations with your therapist prior to any trigger point therapy session.

How is Trigger Point Therapy different from Deep Tissue Massage?

Trigger point therapy can be incorporated into a deep tissue, myofascial release, or neuromuscular massage session. A deep tissue massage is typically requested to break up tense muscle tissue, address joint paint and soothe overall problem areas. Trigger point therapy is used to further target localized areas of tension by applying sustained pressure. Most commonly, trigger point is used within a neuromuscular massage session.

What is the difference between Trigger Point and Myofascial Release Therapy?

Trigger Point Therapy focuses on identifying and releasing trigger points, which are localized areas of muscle tightness and hypersensitivity. The goal is to alleviate pain and dysfunction by releasing these specific points within the muscle. Myofascial Release (MFR) primarily targets the fascia, the connective tissue that surrounds and supports muscles, bones, and organs. MFR aims to release restrictions and adhesions in the fascial system, promoting improved flexibility and reducing pain. Both therapies can be integrated during the same massage session.