A Trigger Point, often referred to as a ‘knot’, is a tight area within a muscle that causes pain and has the potential to refer to other parts of the body. Trigger points can be activated by muscle overuse, inflammation, trauma, infections and nerve pain.

 

Trigger Point Massage is a technique used in Sports and Remedial Massage therapy and applies direct pressure to the specified point on a tender muscle to alleviate the pain and reduce muscle tension. The initial pressure can be uncomfortable as there is a lot of built-up muscle tension but as the trigger point releases, the muscle relaxes and the pain will subside.

 

Muscles that have active trigger points are typically weaker and have a restricted range of motion. This restricted movement causes surrounding muscles to compensate for the movement and can lead to trigger points in surrounding muscles.

​

There is a complex network of common trigger points on the body, and these often refer pain to other areas of the body.  As such, be sure to see a qualified remedial therapist, such as 4 Life, when seeking trigger point treatment.