As an acupuncturist with advanced training in trigger point therapy, I'm excited to share some insights about this powerful technique that can significantly decrease levels of pain and tension, increase your athletic performance and recovery, and boost your overall health.
It's important to note that expert trigger point needling is a specialized skill that not all acupuncturists possess. When seeking treatment, it's crucial to work with a practitioner who has received in-depth training in this area.*
What Are Trigger Points?
Trigger points, often referred to as "knots" in your muscles, are hyper-irritable spots that can cause localized or referred pain. These trigger points are tight and contracted muscles, almost like hard nodules.
This nodule usually occurs from overloading or overworking a muscle, whether from a repetitive movement, or acutely through a quick movement or lifting a heavy weight. It can even occur from sustained posture or sustained load like a heavy shoulder bag.
These points create pain where they are located, but also they can refer pain to a surrounding area. In other words, they cause even more trouble with their “satellite” of referred pain. For instance, someone experiencing headaches and jaw pain may not realize that these issues are actually caused by trigger points in the back, neck and head.
Trigger points can form in any area of the body and muscle and can be responsible for upper and low back pain and lack of mobility, “sciatic”-like pain, headaches & migraines, TMJ, tinnitus, and countless other physical issues.
Trigger Point Referral Patterns in the Head
How Acupuncture Can Help
As an acupuncturist with specialized training in trigger point therapy, I use a combination of techniques to address these issues effectively:
Precise Needling: Using expert needling techniques, I can target these specific ashi points (tender spots) with great accuracy. I was trained by the best of the best in trigger point therapy during my graduate studies, and it is both a skill and an art form effectively help the trigger point “release.”
Myofascial Work: Hands-on techniques help to release tension in the fascia, the connective tissue surrounding muscles.
Cupping: This traditional technique can help increase blood flow and release muscle tension.
Gua Sha: Another traditional method that can help break up fascial adhesions and promote healing.
By combining these approaches, we can create a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
The Importance of Addressing Trigger Points
Treating trigger points isn't just about immediate pain relief—though that's certainly a significant benefit! Here are several reasons why addressing these points is crucial for your overall health:
Pain Relief: By targeting these specific points, we can often reduce or eliminate pain, improving your comfort and quality of life.
Improved Range of Motion: Trigger points can limit your mobility. Treating them can help restore normal movement patterns, enhancing flexibility and preventing injuries.
Enhanced Functionality: Chronic trigger points can lead to muscle weaknesses or imbalances. Addressing them improves muscle function and strength, benefiting your daily activities and athletic performance.
Reduction of Muscle Tension: Treatment helps relax affected muscles, reducing overall tension and promoting relaxation.
Prevention of Secondary Issues: Left untreated, trigger points can cause compensatory movements, potentially leading to secondary pain or dysfunction elsewhere in the body.
Improved Circulation: Trigger points can impair blood flow. Treatment helps restore normal circulation, aiding in healing and overall muscle health.
Better Sleep and Stress Relief: By managing trigger points, you may experience improved sleep quality and reduced stress levels, contributing to overall well-being.
If you're experiencing chronic pain, headaches, or reduced mobility, trigger point therapy could be the key to unlocking your body's natural healing potential. Don't let pain hold you back—reach out today to learn how we can help you on your journey to better health and wellness.