
applied to the Trigger Point for long periods of time, some
shiatsu techniques say 1 to 3 minutes of firm pressure then
repeat! Trigger Point therapy can reduce
pain, increase movement, and allows the muscles to lengthen and
become stronger again. Light
pressure is not effective for treating Trigger Points, and in
fact may increase spasms as the muscle tries to protect itself,
leading to increased and more constant pain. In
contrast, moderate to heavy pressure applied to a Trigger Point
causes the pain to initially increase, but then as the muscle
relaxes the pain will fade.
Pressure should be applied slowly and released
slowly for best results. The pressure should be maintained until
there is a change in pain. If there is no decrease in pain after
one minute, stop the pressure - this is probably not a Trigger
Point! While, or after applying pressure to Trigger Points, the
relaxed muscle should be stretched for more effective treatment.
Either way, if the muscles are not returned to normal length,
there is a greater likelihood the Trigger Points will reoccur.
How Do Trigger Points
Cause Pain and Other Symptoms?
In 1999, David Simons, M.D., discovered that a
Trigger Point is a dysfunction that occurs at the point where a
nerve enters a muscle. Trigger Points result in muscles which
have been traumatized by accidents, injuries, occupational
stress, and overuse. Once a
Trigger Point develops, it can remain for life unless properly
The Trigger Point restricts motion of the
muscles and decreases circulation, depriving the muscle of
nutrients and oxygen and resulting in a collection of metabolic
waste that cannot be properly filtered away. These wastes excite
pain nerve endings and can also damage them. The decrease of
nutrients to the muscle increases spasm and inflammation. Pain
is now being caused by mechanical (pressure) and chemical (waste
product) stimulation. This nasty cycle continues until treatment
Referred pain occurs somewhat mysteriously. Pain
signals in the body that come from several sources are known to
merge into a single nerve at the spine before continuing on to
the brain. As these signals merge, it becomes possible for
mistaken impressions as to the true source of the pain to occur.
Additionally, Trigger Points create shortened muscles which
often compress nearby nerves. This compression irritates the
nerve and distorts the nerve signal transmissions. This can lead
to irregular sensations such as numbness, tingling, and burning.
The Brachial Plexus is a network of nerves originating in the
neck, and supplying the neck, upper back, shoulders, arms,
forearms, and hands. This explains why many Trigger Points found
in the neck and upper back can lead to pain and dysfunction
throughout the upper body. Shortened muscles can also compress
nearby arteries and veins. Decreased blood flow in an artery can
lead to decreased temperature (i.e. cold hands and fingers),
while decreasing blood flow in the veins can lead to swelling
hands and fingers.
Finally, Trigger Points make movement of the
muscles themselves difficult. Stretching or contracting muscles
affected by Trigger Points can cause intense pain, and the body
responds by trying to protect itself, a phenomenon called
"splinting" or "guarding." Over time the muscles stiffen, and
can even form scar tissue, which further immobilizes them. What
was originally decreased movement based on trying to avoid pain
ultimately results in the incapacity of the muscle to move
HOW DOES APPLYING PRESSURE
MAKE TRIGGER POINTS GO AWAY?
When pressure is applied to the Trigger Point, the
chemical/pressure cycle is interrupted, which helps to stop the
contraction and the pain in the muscle. Additionally, the muscle
is heated and kneaded during treatment, which helps to increase
circulation and to remove the metabolic waste products. Another
effect is that muscle fibers become lengthened and stretched
which decreases the pressure component of the pain cycle.
Finally, adding a stimulus (firm pressure) to the trigger point
overrides the pain signals being transmitted, much like a train
t