The term trigger point was first used in 1942 by Dr. Janet Travell to describe
her clinical findings. Trigger point refers to an extremely sensitive area in the
muscle or skin that causes pain and dysfunction. A trigger point can also
create “referred pain,” or a pain that is felt in one part of the body, but actually
originates in an entirely different area. Active trigger points have symptoms
ranging from intense pain to muscle weakness.

Trigger points can create symptoms which mimic a long list of diagnoses,
including migraine headaches, carpal tunnel syndrome and fibromyalgia.
Although they may be caused by a trauma or injury, they are also associated
with repetitive use, structural or postural imbalances and chronic tension and
holding. Trigger points are commonly found in people with chronic neck
and back pain.

Trained massage therapists are experts at identifying trigger point patterns
and releasing them. Treatments can be designed for clients who prefer gentle
work as well as for those that enjoy deep tissue therapies. Trigger point
treatments have shown remarkable results with many clients often experiencing
lasting changes after a single treatment.

The most common approach by massage therapists to treating trigger points
consists of circulatory work to the general area, some exploration by the
therapist to locate the very specific point which recreates the client’s pain
pattern, and then gentle holding of the point until the symptoms fade. This
will be repeated, and may be followed by stretching or lengthening of the muscle.
In addition to relief from pain, clients commonly experience:

• increased endurance
• expanded range of motion
• improved understanding of the underlying causes of their pain.

Trigger Point treatments are offered through LVAC’s Massage department.
To experience the relief of trigger point, or any other type of massage therapy
stop by the front desk or call 773-529-2024 to schedule your appointment
today.