Acupuncture & Trigger Points 

What is a trigger point and how does it cause pain?

A trigger point is a myofascial syndrome caused by injury or stress that often results in pain. When stressed or injured, contracted knots of muscle and connective tissue can develop, and these can cause pain locally (in the area of the trigger point) or can refer pain to other areas, sometimes far from the actual trigger point. These knots irritate nerves and restrict blood flow to the muscles resulting in pain and preventing the body from healing the problem.

How can acupuncture help:

The best way to release trigger points is with the use of acupuncture. By inserting a fine needle in to the area of a trigger point, a twitch response can be elicited. This twitch is the muscle releasing and breaking up the trigger point. Think of the trigger point as a knot of tissue that is constantly pulling on the muscle tissue on either side of it. This knot does not allow the muscle to fully relax. By activating the trigger point, the knot of tissue fully contracts and then is able to fully release. Trigger points that have been present for a long period of time can even produce calcium deposits but with repeated treatment, these can be broken up, returning the tissue to its normal, healthy state.

Everyone knows how it feels when someone presses on a knot in their neck or shoulders. It is painful but often feels good at the same time. These types of knots can cause everything from tightness to severe pain, headaches and even internal disorders. If you have a problem that you think is caused by trigger points, call today to set up a 30-minute consultation and we will let you know how we can help.