Triggerpoint Therapy

What Is Trigger Point Therapy?

Trigger points are hyperirritable spots within a muscle that can cause localized discomfort or pain in other areas of the body.

Trigger Point Therapy is a specialized form of soft tissue therapy aimed at identifying and releasing tight, painful “knots” in muscles—known as trigger points. These points often develop from stress, overuse, poor posture, or injury, and can refer pain to other areas of the body.

Trigger points may feel like small nodules under the skin and are often sensitive to touch. If left untreated, they can cause chronic muscle tension, reduce mobility, and contribute to headaches, back pain, or joint discomfort.

By applying targeted pressure to these trigger points—using hands, tools, or techniques like ischemic compression—a chiropractor can help relax the muscle(s) and promote healing.

How Trigger Point Therapy Helps

Trigger Point Therapy works by applying focused, sustained pressure to specific tight spots in your muscles—known as trigger points. These areas can cause pain both where the knot is and in other parts of the body (referred pain). By releasing this tension, the therapy helps improve blood flow, restore normal muscle function, and reduce discomfort.

What to Expect

During treatment, Dr. Rosenberg will locate and assess tight or tender muscles, then apply graduated pressure and use stretching or movement techniques to help relieve the tension and improve mobility. Most patients find the process deeply therapeutic and effective for lasting relief.

This is often integrated with soft tissue therapy, which involves manual techniques that treat muscles, ligaments, tendons, and fascia to enhance overall function and mobility.

Benefits of Trigger Point Therapy

Relief from chronic pain
Increased range of motion
Improved posture and flexibility
Better circulation and healing

It’s a safe and effective option for people with musculoskeletal pain, athletic injuries, or stress-related tension.

Frequently Asked Questions

[/toggle]What is a trigger point?

A trigger point is like a knot that feels like a pea that’s buried deep inside the muscle. It contains lactic acid, a normal byproduct of muscle activity, which can get trapped in the muscle as a result of physical, chemical or emotional stress. Trigger points are often tender and painful. As affected muscles tighten, their function and motion are restricted, resulting in pain and weakness.

How do trigger points develop?

Trigger points form when muscles become overworked, strained, or injured—often due to poor posture, repetitive movements, or stress. This leads to tight knots in the muscle that can cause pain locally or in other areas of the body (referred pain).

How can this therapy benefit me?

Trigger point therapy can help reduce pain, improve muscle flexibility, and restore normal movement. It’s especially beneficial for relieving tension-related discomfort and improving overall muscle function.

Are there things I can do to prevent the development of trigger points?

Yes—regular exercise, proper posture, stretching, and getting enough sleep can all help reduce muscle tension and prevent trigger points from forming. Staying hydrated and managing stress also play an important role in keeping your muscles healthy and relaxed..

Let Us Help You Feel Your Best

At Gibsons Chiropractic, Dr. Rosenberg combines Trigger Point Therapy with evidence-based chiropractic care and soft tissue techniques to help you move better and feel better.

Book your appointment today to find lasting relief from muscle pain and tension.

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