What is a trigger point?
A trigger point refers to a small area of muscle that is tight and tender to the touch. Poor posture, injury, and repetitive strain are common causes of trigger points. When pressed or touched, people usually feel discomfort or pain in the trigger point, which can sometimes lead to pain in other parts of the body. Trigger points pose no significant danger or threat to our health; they simply cause pain and affect our normal mobility. Luckily, trigger points can be improved and treated using different methods.
Where are the common spots for trigger points?
In fact, muscle knots and trigger points can occur anywhere in our body where there is muscle tissue. However, they are most commonly found in the calf, hamstrings, upper trapezius, and lower back.
How can physiotherapy help with trigger point problems?
Physiotherapists can provide trigger point release to relieve pain and discomfort using various methods:
Manual pressure: Physiotherapists can use their fingers, hands, or even elbows to apply pressure to the trigger point, helping to release muscle tension.
Stretching: Physiotherapists can teach patients different stretching exercises to help release tension on their own, providing long-term care.
Massage: Physiotherapists can apply massage techniques such as deep tissue massage and myofascial release to improve pain and discomfort.
Heat therapy: Physiotherapists can apply heat to the affected area to increase blood flow and relax the affected muscle.
By releasing muscle tension, patients can experience a better range of motion, less pain, and restored normal muscle function.
What can we do to prevent trigger points in advance?
To prevent trigger points, we can pay more attention to our daily lifestyle and posture. Ensure that your posture during work and study is appropriate. Additionally, perform stretching exercises after long periods of standing, sitting, or lying down. Moreover, our body muscles become tight and tense when we involuntarily feel stressed, so it is important to rest and relax after a long day of work.
Do you need a session with our physiotherapists for your trigger point treatment?
You can schedule yourself an appointment here with our physiotherapists.
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