Using Trigger Point Massage To Treat Myofascial Pain Syndrome
Myofascial pain syndrome is a chronic condition that occurs when pressure and strain on sensitive areas of your muscle tissue leads to you experiencing pain in other parts of your body. These sensitive areas of muscle, known as trigger points, cause referred pain. For example, muscle tension in certain parts of your back could cause you to experience neck pain even though the muscles in your neck are fine. Common areas to develop trigger points include between the shoulder blades, the lower back, the jaw, and the forearms.
Muscle tissue can become tight and sensitive after an injury or as a result of overuse and repetitive strain, so those who have a job that requires repetitive motions, such as typing or working on a production line, are particularly susceptible to developing myofascial pain syndrome. Doctors prescribe painkillers and sedatives, which are used to relax your muscles, as a first line treatment approach for myofascial pain syndrome, but these drugs can cause undesirable side effects, such as gastric upset and headaches.
Trigger Point Massage
Trigger point massage is an alternative treatment option for myofascial pain syndrome and alleviates pain by applying and releasing pressure in cycles to the identified trigger points. Applying short bursts of pressure to sensitive areas of muscle can release knots and ease tension, so there's a reduction in referred pain. You participate in the treatment by communicating the intensity of the pain and discomfort to the massage therapist, and the intensity should decrease with each massage until you are free from myofascial pain syndrome. Some people experience significant relief after their first trigger point massage, but a course of treatment is needed to experience complete healing.
During your first appointment, your massage therapist will take details of your symptoms and assess your musculoskeletal system to identify trigger points, which can usually be felt by using firm, sweeping strokes across your body. Depending on the location of your trigger points, treatment can be delivered in a seated or supine position, and you can usually remain fully clothed. This type of massage is safe for anyone to undergo, including children and pregnant women. However, you should make your massage therapist aware of any health conditions you have to allow them to make any necessary adjustments to your treatment.
Myofascial pain syndrome is a progressive condition, so seeking treatment as soon as you develop symptoms can reduce your discomfort and the length of time it takes to recover.
