Trigger Point Therapy London & Near You

Trigger Point Therapy is a specialised form of Remedial Massage Therapy aimed at providing relief from muscle tension and pain through precise application of direct pressure to specific points within tender muscle tissue. This therapy has gained recognition as an effective method for pain relief, with therapists targeting trigger points and gently applying pressure to them, typically releasing the pain within about 30 seconds. If the pain persists, therapists make necessary adjustments to the angle and pressure until the pain dissipates.

Trigger Point Therapy is highly effective when addressing issues such as neck pain, reduced range of motion due to stiffness, and sciatic pain. It is a valuable alternative to conventional treatments like muscle relaxants, anti-inflammatory medications, and antidepressants, which often offer temporary relief but fail to address the root cause of the pain.

What Is Trigger Point Therapy?

Trigger Point Therapy is a massage technique designed to alleviate pain in specific areas of the body where trigger points are causing discomfort. These trigger points, often referred to as “knots” are commonly located within muscle tissue and can irritate or inflame surrounding areas, leading to pain.

History of Trigger Point Therapy

Dr. Janet G. Travell, an American physician, is credited with pioneering the field of Trigger Point Therapy. In her studies conducted in the early 1900s, she observed that trigger points were a significant source of pain in many patients. Dr. Travell developed a system for identifying and treating these points, which is still utilised today. Her work laid the foundation for what is now known as Trigger Point Therapy.

How Trigger Point Therapy Works

Trigger Point Therapy operates on the principle of identifying and releasing knots within muscle tissue. Muscles are composed of individual muscle cells, or myocytes, held together by collagen. The collagen forms a sheath around the muscle cells, connecting them to each other. When a muscle tightens, it usually means that one or more muscle cells have shortened, creating tension in the muscle. Trigger Point Therapy aims to release this tension by applying pressure to the knots within the muscle, allowing the muscle cells to return to their normal length.

How Trigger Points Are Formed in the Body

Trigger points can develop due to various factors, including poor posture, repetitive mechanical stress, de-conditioning, mechanical imbalance, joint disorders, vitamin deficiencies, and non-restorative sleep. These factors have become increasingly common in our modern, sedentary lifestyles. Poor posture, sedentary behaviours, or even over activity can lead to the formation of trigger points.

Habitually poor posture, prolonged bed rest, or sitting for extended periods without ergonomic support can contribute to the development of trigger points. Activities such as typing or using a mouse without proper wrist support can also lead to trigger point formation.

Difference Between Trigger Point Therapy and Myofascial Release

Trigger Point Therapy focuses on the direct, sustained pressure applied to isolated trigger points in muscles, typically using thumbs or supported fingers. This technique aims to relieve pain and tension in specific areas. On the other hand, Myofascial Release typically involves stretching the tissue between two points, focusing on elongating the fascia and releasing tension across broader areas.

Types of Trigger Points

There are three main types of trigger points: active, passive, and satellite. Active trigger points are painful when touched and can radiate pain to other areas of the body. Passive trigger points may not always be painful to the touch but can still cause referred pain. Satellite trigger points, while similar to active points, tend to be less painful.

What Makes Trigger Points Painful?

Trigger points are essentially taut bands of muscle and fascia tissue that become rigid, restricting blood flow to muscle tissue. This hinders the flow of oxygen and essential nutrients, creating a state of metabolic crisis in the muscle. As a result, the muscle becomes painful, and the restricted blood flow perpetuates the cycle of pain. The pain can vary from a dull ache to a sharp, radiating discomfort, often affecting other parts of the body.

Common Risk Factors for Developing Trigger Points

Several factors can increase the risk of developing trigger points, including:

• Tight muscles
• Poor posture
• Inactivity or excessive activity
• Muscle overuse or injury
• Stressful lifestyle

Signs and Symptoms of Trigger Points

If you suspect you have trigger points, consider the following checklist of signs and symptoms:

• Localised muscle pain
• Increased pain upon applying pressure
• Referred pain to other areas
• Time-specific pain exacerbation
• Reduced range of motion in the affected muscle
• Muscle fatigue
• Tightness or knots in the muscle

If these signs align with your experience, you might be dealing with trigger points.

Different Methods of Trigger Point Therapy

There are several methods of Trigger Point Therapy that have proven effective:

1. Manual Trigger Point Therapy:

• Application of precise hand pressure by a therapist.
• Pressure is held for several seconds and then released.
• Multiple applications may be performed during a session.

2. Trigger Point Injections:

• Involves injecting a local anaesthetic into trigger points.
• Interrupts the flow of electrical impulses and relaxes muscles.

. Spray and Stretch:

• Developed by Dr. Janet Travell.
• Anaesthetic is sprayed on trigger points while the muscles are stretched.
• Relaxes trigger points by inhibiting the pain response.

4. Dry Needling:

• Involves thin needles to stimulate and release trigger points.
• Effective for conditions like headaches, neck pain, and back pain.

5. Trigger Point Pressure Release and Micro-stripping Treatments:

• Includes sustained pressure and micro-stripping techniques.
• Sustained pressure involves pressing on trigger points and gradually releasing.
• Micro-stripping uses thumb-over-thumb contact to release constricted fibres.

Benefits of Trigger Point Therapy

Trigger Point Therapy offers a range of physical, mental, and physiological benefits:

• Higher Energy Levels: Releases muscle tension, boosting energy.
• Better Sleep: Alleviates discomfort, making it easier to fall and stay asleep.
• Pain Relief from Headaches: Targets tense muscles in the head and neck, providing relief.
• Improved Circulation: Enhances blood flow to alleviate fatigue, headaches, and vertigo.
• Stress and Tension Reduction: Eases muscle tension and stress, promoting relaxation.
• Increased Mobility and Flexibility: Relaxes stiff muscles, improving overall mobility.

The Drawbacks of Trigger Point Therapy

While Trigger Point Therapy is beneficial for many; however it may not be suitable for everyone. Applying pressure to sensitive muscle areas can be painful, and the release of pain-inducing chemicals into the bloodstream can lead to temporary fatigue. Some discomfort may also be experienced in the treated regions.

What to Expect at a Trigger Point Therapy Session

During a Trigger Point Therapy session, the therapist begins by assessing your health history, symptoms, and any underlying issues contributing to your pain. A series of physical examinations, including posture checks and muscle strength assessments, are performed to identify muscular anomalies.

The therapist may focus on areas unrelated to the primary issue, as approximately 80% of trigger points cause pain in other areas of the body. For example, a trigger point in the neck might tighten shoulder muscles, restricting motion and causing discomfort in the affected region.

How Much Trigger Point Massage Cost in the UK?

Trigger point massage in London and the UK at spas usually comes with a price range of approximately £55 to £110 and more in high end establishments. Choosing the convenience of freelance mobile massage therapists to address your trigger points in London typically costs between £70 to £120. The actual price can fluctuate based on the therapist's experience and location. Trigger point massage, known for its targeted pressure techniques, is a popular choice, whether enjoyed at a spa or through the convenience of mobile services, offering a unique pathway to pain relief and well-being.

How to Prepare for a Trigger Point Therapy Session

To prepare for a Trigger Point Therapy session, wear loose-fitting clothing that allows free movement. Avoid consuming a large meal immediately before the session. Inform your therapist of any medical conditions or allergies you have. This information is vital to tailor the session to your needs effectively.

In Conclusion, Trigger Point Therapy is a highly effective method for managing pain and relieving muscle tension. This comprehensive approach to addressing trigger points can improve your overall well-being and is a valuable addition to modern pain management techniques. Whether you're dealing with chronic pain or seeking relief from acute discomfort, Trigger Point Therapy offers a promising solution. You can now search for available massage therapists and Spas offering Trigger Points massage near you in London and the United Kingdom on Massages Me UK.

Final Note From Massages Me

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Bradford, Oxford, Belfast, Nottingham, Cambridge, Leeds, Newcastle upon Tyne, Sheffield, Brighton & Hove, Glasgow, Cardiff, Birmingham, Edinburgh, London, Liverpool, Manchester,