Chiropractic adjustments should help to alleviate spinal pain and pain in other parts of the body caused by the compression of the spine. Trigger point therapies aim to reduce fascial and muscular tightness, improve range of motion and help the healing of the localized area.

What is Trigger Point Therapy?

Trigger point therapy is a technique used to reduce pain, and restore the original function of the muscles. It is commonly used by Chiropractors in conjunction with adjustment techniques. The goal of trigger point therapy is to reduce the presence of pain in the spine, as well as connected parts of the body.

The Chiropractor applies trigger point therapy (compression) with both his/her hands as well as with specialized tools. Trigger point therapy is effective, and the results are apparent shortly after the treatment takes place. First, the localized pain decreases in intensity, or subsides altogether. Next, the referred pain is reduced. By also releasing adhesions, the muscles will continue to regain strength, eventually reaching their full range of motion and function. This natural approach to spine-related pain has a low potential for side effects.

What are Trigger Points?

Trigger points are nodules within tight muscles. These points, which some refer to as knots, cause pain locally while also transmitting pain to other parts of the body. For example, a trigger point in the spine may cause referred pain along the legs, in a similar vein to sciatica. Pain resulting from a trigger point can range in intensity from extreme to minor discomfort. Often, this referred pain is diagnosed as a local condition, and these local treatments are ineffective. So, Chiropractic treatment is preferable to localized treatments. Trigger points are also a common symptom of fibromyalgia, a bone and muscle condition that results in body pain. These trigger points are located in the fascia and also skeletal muscle.

Trigger Point Therapy
What Conditions Does it Treat?

Trigger point therapy is effective in treating a wide range of conditions, many of which are not directly related to the spine.

Close up of woman receiving trigger point therapy from a chiropractor

Where Are the Most Common Trigger Points in the Body?

Depending on the body’s unique conditions, trigger points can be distributed throughout the body, or located in specific regions. Generally, trigger points are close to joints, but are not located directly inside them. There are trigger points on the neck, chest, back, elbows, lower back, hips, knees, and buttocks, among other areas.

Because trigger points form in response to overactivity, the activities (or lack of activities) that patients participate in impact the development of these trigger points.

What Causes Trigger Point Pains?

More often than not, trigger points result from a repetitive lifestyle that excessively uses a certain part of the body. Often, working in the same career (and consequently performing the same motions) is largely responsible. So, mechanics that constantly position themselves under cars are prone to form trigger points. Also, lifting heavy objects (or people) may cause trigger points to form. Sedentary office lifestyles that de-emphasize movement may cause trigger points to form as well. Finally, suffering an injury (such as a car accident or fall) can cause trigger points, too.

While it may not be a direct cause, stress, depression and other psychological factors may impact trigger points as well.

How does the Chiropractor Perform Trigger Point Therapy?

At the beginning of the patient’s first Chiropractic session, the Chiropractor will perform an examination to gauge the source and level of neck and back pain. Based on this exam, the Chiropractor will then determine a treatment plan, incorporating spinal adjustment with muscle work techniques. Patients that complain about referred pain are more likely to receive trigger point therapy than those who do not. However, this is usually complemented by at least one or more other treatment methods.

To administer trigger point therapy, the Chiropractor will attempt to reduce the swelling in each trigger point. Applying consistent compression to these trigger points will improve blood flow to these trigger points, easing the local, referred pain and tightness. Throughout the Chiropractic therapy session, the Chiropractor will gradually increase and decrease the level of pressure with patient input. This approach helps strike a balance between perceived pain and the appropriate treatment.

How Often Should I Receive Trigger Point Therapy?

As with receiving other Chiropractic adjustments, consistency is paramount. In order for your body to properly respond to and benefit from these manipulations, this should be a consistent practice. So, in order for the procedure to be effective, you should receive trigger point therapy from a Chiropractor at least twice per week.

Schedule a Chiropractic Appointment Today

The first step to healing your back, neck, leg or other spine-related pain is visiting a Chiropractor. Dr. Brenner will be able to identify and properly treat your spine-related issues, helping you to enjoy a smooth road to recovery. With consistent treatments, you will be able to again enjoy a more relaxed lifestyle. Contact us to schedule a treatment.