What are Myofascial Trigger Points?
Your thoracic spine is the column of vertebrae that extends from your upper back down to your torso. The entire area is surrounded by a broad network of interwoven muscles. Each muscle is surrounded by a layer of connective tissue called fascia. Fascia acts as a protective coating to prevent different muscles from binding together. When a muscle is overused or injured, the fascia can form tight fibrous areas that restricts movement. These areas can become very sensitive and lead to muscle strain and pain. That’s why they are known as myofascial trigger points. Because your muscle groups are interconnected, it’s possible for myofascial trigger points to refer pain to and affect areas that are seemingly unrelated.
Myofascial trigger points often form when one muscle is used repeatedly, or is continuously strained by imbalanced posture. They can even be brought on by stress and anxiety, as some people tend to clench their muscles as a coping method. As if the pain weren’t enough, these trigger points can contribute to other conditions, such as sleep problems. Ongoing research is studying the relationship between these trigger points and the development of fibromyalgia, a debilitating chronic muscle pain syndrome.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Myofascial Trigger Points
Take note if you are experiencing the following symptoms:
Persistent or worsening muscle pain
Pain “deep” within muscles
A sensitive “knot” of muscle
Disrupted sleep due to pain
If you are experiencing any these symptoms, we recommend you come in for a consultation. Make an appointment online anytime.
We are here to help
Our mission is to provide a timely and sustainable recovery. We practice a wide range of evidence-based techniques to aid in your recovery, customized for each patient.
Chiropractic Manipulative Treatment to help restore your full range of motion.
Therapy modalities such as cold laser or electric stimulation to minimize muscle tightness, pain, and swelling.
Neuromuscular Massage Therapy to improve circulation and reduce pain.
Therapeutic stretching to increase your flexibility.
IronChiro is proud to have served the Rochester community for more than 20 years. You can schedule an appointment anytime by contacting our office.
