If you have localized muscle knots that cause aching or produce pain in a predictable pattern, you may be dealing with myofascial trigger points. The manual therapy that specifically targets these nodules is called trigger point therapy. At PT & Chiro Miami, our clinicians incorporate trigger point methods into comprehensive physical therapy and chiropractic care plans to alleviate pain and restore mobility.
What Is a Myofascial Trigger Point
A trigger point is a hyperirritable spot within a taut band of skeletal muscle. Pressing on it can reproduce your familiar pain and may refer symptoms to distant areas. Common sites include the neck and shoulders, upper back, hip flexors, calves, and forearms.
What Is Trigger Point Therapy
Trigger point therapy is a focused manual technique in which a clinician palpates to locate the nodule and applies sustained, tolerable pressure until the tissue softens and the pain eases. Variations include ischemic compression, positional release, and short repeated holds that gradually reduce sensitivity.
How Clinicians Find Trigger Points
- Systematic palpation along taut muscle bands
- Identification of a tender nodule that reproduces your usual symptoms
- Observation of referred pain patterns and local twitch response
- Correlation with posture, workload, and movement testing
Benefits of Trigger Point Therapy
- Reduced local and referred pain
- Improved muscle extensibility and joint motion
- Less guarding and better movement quality
- Faster progress with corrective exercise
How Trigger Point Therapy Fits Into Your Plan
Hands-on release is most effective when paired with active rehabilitation. After treatment, we reinforce changes with mobility drills, motor control training, and progressive strength tailored to your goals. Explore our integrated manual therapy approach to see how these elements work together.
Related Techniques
- Myofascial release for broader fascial restrictions
- Soft tissue mobilization to improve tissue glide and circulation
- Joint mobilization when stiffness limits the range of motion
- Dry needling for trigger points when appropriate and authorized
What to Expect During a Session
- Assessment of posture, movement, and pain patterns
- Palpation to confirm trigger point location and referral map
- Sustained pressure that is firm but tolerable with therapist feedback
- Re-test of motion and function followed by home strategies to maintain gains
FAQ: Trigger Point Manual Therapy
Which manual therapy technique targets trigger points specifically
Trigger point therapy is the primary manual technique for locating and releasing trigger points within muscle tissue.
How long does a trigger point release take
Most releases take 30 to 90 seconds per site. Multiple points may be addressed in a session based on your tolerance and goals.
Will the pain come back?
Relief lasts longer when you pair manual release with corrective exercise, workload modification, hydration, and sleep. Your clinician will outline a maintenance plan.
Who performs trigger point therapy?
Licensed physical therapists and chiropractors commonly provide trigger point therapy. Some occupational therapists and licensed massage therapists use related methods within the state's scope of practice.
Start Your Recovery at PT & Chiro Miami
If you have stubborn muscle pain or tension that limits your activity, targeted trigger point therapy may help. Contact us to schedule an evaluation and discover how our comprehensive plan can help you move comfortably again.
Dr. Joseph Hudson
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