They can be found in every muscle that can be intentionally activated in the body. They are defined by a zone or a spot that is hypersensitive in a defined group of tense muscle fibres. They can either be active or latent and are dissociated when palpated. The active point will replicate the symptomatology (pain, fatigue, numbness) presented by the person, either partially or in totality. In contrast, the latent point will be hypersensitive to touch without replicating the pain related to the consultation. A trigger point will appear following compression, stretching, or overloading of the muscle.
We talk about overloading the muscle when:
According to many theories and our current understanding of this phenomenon, all muscle contractions mentioned above can create an energy crisis in the muscle. In fact, muscular work might cause a decrease in blood supply to the muscle because the pressure inside of it increases. Consequently, this has an effect on the quantity of oxygen that can be supplied to the muscle fibres.
Adapted Clothing
For starters, wearing adapted clothing when practicing different physical activities during wintertime is extremely important. In fact, the cold weather can cause vasoconstriction of the blood vessels which increases the likelihood of experiencing trigger points. It is also important to think about articles of clothing that we wear on a daily basis, such as bras or belts, that can restrict blood flow to the muscles of the area.
Adapted Positions
For office workers, changing positions regularly and better ergonomics are important when trying to limit muscle overload. Certain positions can create compression of the muscle and foster the appearance of trigger points. This can be observable when people sit cross-legged for a long amount of time. This is why it is very important to move and take multiple breaks throughout the day.
Psychological Stress
Going through a difficult time (either psychologically or physically) can also encourage the appearance of trigger points. In fact, in a period of high stress, the body secretes a hormone called cortisol that causes vasoconstriction of blood vessels (reducing the size of its internal cavity) and reduces the amount of oxygen that can be sent to muscles and other structures of the body. Furthermore, it can also have an impact on the reactivity of the neuromuscular junction. This means that, due to high levels of cortisol in the bloodstream, the neuromuscular junction becomes hyperactive, causing the nerve to keep sending signals more and more often telling the muscle to contract itself. Those two mechanisms are sufficient to explain why a trigger point would appear in a band of muscular tissue. Stress management through physical activity, yoga, or meditation can help lessen the chances of them getting worse or recurring.
Treatment Modalities
There are many treatment modalities that can help diminish muscle contraction while encouraging vasodilation of blood vessels (augmenting the size of its internal cavity). That is why many techniques like applying heat, myofascial release, and massage can be used to relieve trigger points. Furthermore, the use of dry needling under the dermis in physiotherapy or acupuncture can help with pain management.
Exercise
Adhering to an exercise plan is also essential to reestablish muscle balance when a lack of voluntary muscle control creates trigger points. In fact, when a muscle is weak, compensations can ensue and create muscle overload in other muscle groups.
Stress Management
Good stress managing capabilities help prevent their appearance, but it also plays a huge role in trigger point treatment. Abdominal breathing and mindfulness are other modalities that can be used. Healthy life habits, such as the practice of regular physical activity, socially interacting with people that we love, laughing, seeking help from different health professionals when needed, etc. can also help diminish cortisol secretion and therefore lessen our muscle tension.
Finally, consulting a healthcare professional, like a physical therapist, a massage therapist or an osteopath, is important in order to get a complete and safe follow-up. Hexa Physio’s team comprises all the healthcare professionals necessary to tend to your needs and is there to help you through the process. Don’t hesitate to contact us or book an appointment to loosen up your trigger points and prevent them from coming back!
