Trigger point massage is a form of massage that focuses on specific trigger points in the body. These trigger points are tender areas that can cause pain and discomfort when touched. Trigger point massage is thought to be effective in relieving pain and tension in the muscles, and it can be performed by a therapist or by yourself at home. In this blog post, we will discuss what trigger point massage is, its benefits, and who should perform it.
What is a trigger point massage?
As we mentioned, trigger point massage is a form of massage that focuses on specific trigger points in the body. These trigger points are usually located in the muscles, and they can be tender or painful when touched. When you receive trigger point massage, the therapist will use their fingers, knuckles, or elbows to apply pressure to these points. This allows relief from any built-up tension or pain you might be feeling.
Is a trigger point massage painful?
A trigger point massage can be uncomfortable, but it shouldn’t be unbearable. If you’re feeling pain during the massage, let your therapist know so they can adjust their pressure. Remember, the goal is to release the knots in your muscles, not to cause more pain. Your massage therapist should know the exact amount of pressure to apply but be sure to speak up if it hurts.
How often should I get a trigger point massage?
That all depends on how often you’re experiencing pain or tension in your muscles. If you have a lot of knots, you may need to go more frequently at first. Once your trigger points have been released, you can space out your massages further apart.
Who should perform a trigger point massage?
Ideally, someone who is trained and experienced in trigger point massage and most licensed massage therapists is. Trigger point massage is quite a basic technique compared to some such as hot stone massage but highly effective in helping with pain and discomfort.
What type of pain is good for utilizing a trigger point massage?
Trigger point massage is most commonly used for addressing myofascial pain syndrome, which is defined as chronic muscle pain and stiffness. The condition is often the result of repetitive motions or poor posture. While trigger point massage can be used to relieve pain in any area of the body, it’s most commonly employed to target specific areas, such as joints and areas with can experience a lot of stiffness.
Which areas in our body are trigger points?
Trigger points are usually found in the muscles of our neck, shoulders, back and hips. They can also be found in our jaw and our temples. When these muscles get tight, they can cause pain in other parts of our body. This is because the muscle is sending signals to our brain that something is wrong. The muscle is trying to express that something is not quite right and needs attention.
Who should perform a trigger point massage?
To get the best benefit it should be done by a professional massage therapist. The therapist will know how to find the trigger points and release them. They will also be able to give you advice on how to prevent them from coming back.
You can however after some tutorials learn at home and have a friend or partner perform this for you as you can see in the video below. This could allow some quick relief.
