Trigger Points

Trigger points are small, tight areas within a muscle that can feel like tender “knots” in a band of muscle tissue. They are common and can develop in almost any skeletal muscle in the body.

When pressed, trigger points may be painful and can sometimes cause a reaction such as a sudden sharp sensation, muscle tightness, or a brief “twitch” in the area. This tenderness is often more sensitive than expected for the amount of pressure applied.

One of the key features of trigger points is that they can also cause referred pain — meaning pain is felt in a different area of the body from where the tight spot is located. For example, a trigger point in the neck or shoulder may contribute to pain in the head, arm, or upper back. This pain does not follow nerve patterns and can appear as a consistent, recognisable pattern.

Trigger points often develop in the muscle belly and are usually quite small, but they can still have a significant effect on movement, comfort, and function. They are very common and can be present in people of all ages, even without causing pain. However, when they become active, they are often linked with ongoing muscle discomfort or restriction of movement.

Common contributing factors include:

• Poor posture (including desk or phone-related positions)
• Muscle overuse or repetitive strain
• Lack of regular movement or exercise
• Injury or physical trauma
• Ongoing stress or tension
• Poor sleep
• Joint issues or movement imbalances
• General muscle fatigue or de conditioning

How massage therapy can help

Treatment can help reduce the sensitivity of trigger points, release muscle tension, and improve movement. Over time, this can reduce pain, improve flexibility, and help restore normal muscle function.