Trigger Point Therapy is based on the medical research of Dr. Janet Travell and Dr. David Simons. It is a hands on technique used to relieve muscular pain and dysfunction.

A trigger point is an area of hyper-irritability within soft tissue structures that is characterized by local tenderness and referred pain, tingling, numbness, burning, aching or itching.  They may also trigger nausea, earache, dizziness, or blurred vision.  Not all trigger points refer pain.  It depends very much upon the individual. 

The origin of trigger points is thought to be changes in the chemical balance in a local area, which irritates the sensory systems or an accumulation of waste products around a nerve receptor.  They may feel like nodules or taut bands of fibers within the soft tissues. Nutritional deficiencies or inadequacies may be a contributing factor to the development of trigger points.

Trigger points may appear in muscles, which have been overused or injured.  Injury could have been through an accident or surgery. The primary side-effect of trigger points is increased muscle tension and muscle shortening.  Pain is the most common secondary effect.

Trigger points are not visible and do not show up in traditional medical tests such as x-rays or MRI.  Eighty percent of trigger point locations are the same as traditional acupuncture points.

Trigger point therapy uses static pressure applied for 10 seconds, released, and then applied for 10 more seconds in a pumping action while the patient breathes calmly and deeply. This action helps to release toxins and calm the nerves.  Releasing the trigger points also releases endorphins.  This combination not only eliminates discomfort but leaves the body feeling more energized.

Trigger point therapy requires that the patient and therapist work together in order to achieve the best results.  The patient must communicate the location and intensity of pain as the therapist works.

Often, relief is felt after the first treatment.  Chronic pain may need a series of treatments in order to achieve lasting results.

This website last updated on 31 July 2010

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