Trigger Point Physiotherapy

The term trigger point (TrP) was first introduced way back in 1942 by Dr. Janet Travell who defined it as a “hyperirritable spot in skeletal muscle that is associated with a hypersensitive palpable nodule in a taut band”. When a muscle contracts repeatedly, there is a buildup of lactic acid in the fibres. This leads to constriction of the capillaries which in turn prevents this lactic acid from being circulated. The result is a “hypersensitive palpable nodule”. In other words, it’s a knot that hurts and it could show up in any one of the body’s 640 muscles. It is commonplace to hear patients complain of their pain by saying, “I have got knots!”. Trigger Point Physiotherapy is the treatment of choice at Pivotal Motion Physiotherapy for these knots and provides lasting relief in most cases.

Are you experiencing back pain or knots? Make an appointment for the quality physiotherapy Brisbane depends on. Book an appointment online for TrP physiotherapy or call us today on 07 3352 5116.

Trigger Point Physiotherapy

Treatment is meant to relieve pain and discomfort associated with sensitive knots in the body’s muscle-skeletal system – commonly known as trigger points. Therapy consists of a combination of various techniques, all with the aim of alleviating pain, restoring motion and preventing future occurrences. TrP physio is a holistic approach to treatment that addresses the symptoms, as well as the underlying causes of knots and tensions.

Here are the Facts About Trigger Points:

A Trigger point (TrP) can be active (causing local pain and discomfort) or latent / passive (does not produce spontaneous pain at rest).

• Unfortunately, BOTH these types of TrPs can cause muscle tension and shortening (i.e, tight muscles).
• A TrP can cause referred pain into other areas of the body. For example: a trigger point in the infraspinatus muscle (which is located on the outside of your shoulder blade) can refer pain into the arm and sometimes as far as the elbow.
• Trigger points in some neck and shoulder muscles can cause pins and needles, headaches, nausea and dizziness. TrPs in the lower back or buttocks can referred pain into your legs (and the list of other possible referred pain locations goes on and on).
• Management options include manual trigger point release techniques, injection therapy (using saline or local anaesthetics) and/or dry needling.
• TrPs can be aggravated due to mechanical stress on muscles, nutritional inadequacies, metabolic disorders, viral/bacterial illnesses and stress.
• TrP physiotherapy alone may not solve your condition permanently but is often an important first step toward possible recovery.

Are There Long-Term Prevention Options?

For long term prevention, a combination of the above techniques, along with correction of posture, body mechanics and exercise, may be the most beneficial forms of TrP physio. But it can be difficult for someone to learn for themselves if they have a problem with trigger points – TrPs can only be discovered and correctly treated if you have a broad knowledge of anatomy and muscle physiology. Treatment from a qualified and experienced Pivotal Motion physiotherapist can be the key to lasting long-term physical improvements.

How Pivotal Motion Can Help

Our physiotherapists prefer evidence-based practice. That is why at Pivotal Motion Physiotherapy, all therapists lean toward a multi-modal approach in treating patients using massage, trigger point therapy, exercise prescription, correction of ergonomic factors and, most importantly, providing actionable advice. We find that addressing the problem in multiple ways corresponds to the most satisfactory outcomes – a reduction in pain and improved mobility.