A trigger point is an area of muscle tension that causes pain and interferes with normal muscle function by restricting normal range of motion, weakening the muscle, and causing pain in other areas of the body.
While using the hands, light pressure is applied on the skin to locate the tense muscle band or muscle fiber nodules. Then by using the fingers or the hand, pressure is applied in a more prolonged way to the site of tension in order to provoke muscle relaxation.
Because pressure is applied, some patients may experience mild discomfort until the muscle relaxes. In addition to localized pressure pain, it is possible to feel pain move to another part of the body. Trigger point therapy is very effective in reducing muscle spasms and relaxing muscle hypertonicity. It helps restore range of motion and facilitates healing.