Lets Discuss Trigger Point Therapy @ Health Wise Chiropractic
The first thing we have to do is define what is a TRIGGER POINT:
A Trigger Point (TrP) is a hyper-irritable spot, a palpable nodule found within the taut bands of the skeletal muscles' fascia. These points are not merely random occurrences; they represent specific areas of muscle tissue that have become sensitive and reactive due to a variety of factors. Trigger points can often be identified through palpation, revealing themselves as small, firm nodules that can be uncomfortable or painful when touched.
Direct compression or muscle contraction can elicit many different responses, and most of my patients report experiencing pain at either the exact location of the trigger point or pain that is referred from the trigger point to another area of the body. This phenomenon of referred pain can often lead to confusion, as individuals may not realise that the source of their discomfort is located in a different part of their body than where they feel the pain. For instance, a trigger point in the shoulder may cause pain to radiate down the arm or even into the neck.
Trigger points develop in the myofascial tissue, primarily in the centre of a muscle belly where the motor endplate enters, which are referred to as primary or central TrPs. These central trigger points are particularly significant because they are often the initial sites of dysfunction and can lead to a cascade of muscular and fascial issues if left untreated.
Those are palpable nodules found within the tight muscle, typically measuring between 2-10 mm in size. These trigger points can manifest in various locations across any skeletal muscle in the body, making them a widespread issue that many individuals may experience at some point in their lives.
We all have TrPs in the body, and while they are a common occurrence, their presence does not necessarily mean that an individual will experience pain or discomfort. Trigger points can be present even in babies and children, yet their existence does not always correlate with the formation of a pain syndrome. This suggests that other factors, such as individual pain thresholds and overall health, play a critical role in whether or not trigger points lead to significant symptoms.
When it does occur, the presence of TrPs is directly associated with myofascial pain syndrome*, which is characterized by chronic pain in the muscles and surrounding tissues. Additionally, these trigger points can contribute to somatic dysfunction, psychological disturbances, and restrictions in daily functions. This means that not only can they cause physical discomfort, but they can also affect a person’s emotional well-being and their ability to carry out everyday activities effectively.
What causes the myofascial trigger points:
-Injury: These can arise from various incidents, including car accidents, sports-related injuries, and falls. Any trauma that disrupts normal muscle function can lead to the development of trigger points.
-Unexpected movements: Sudden shifts in body position or movement can strain muscles and create trigger points.
-Quick Movements: Twisting the body quickly to avoid an obstacle or to look at something can place undue stress on the muscles, contributing to the formation of trigger points.
-Change in regular activity: Dr Julian often notes an increase in patients experiencing trigger points on Mondays, particularly after the weekend warriors have engaged in extensive gardening or spring cleaning, activities that their bodies may not be accustomed to after a week of less strenuous work.
-Sustained postures: Prolonged periods of sitting, studying, or maintaining any static posture can lead to muscle fatigue and the development of trigger points. (That's right, students, you have a right to whinge about those long hours spent hunched over books!)
-Nerve impingement: When nerves become compressed, it can lead to muscle dysfunction and the formation of trigger points in the affected areas.
-Stress: Emotional and psychological stress can manifest physically, leading to muscle tension and the development of trigger points, which can create a vicious cycle of pain and stress.
If you want more information. Please call Health Wise Chiropractic 03 9467 7889 or book online to see one of our Chiropractors
3/21 Dornoch Drive Sunbury 3429
131 Wembley Ave Strathtulloh (Melton) 3338
