Trigger Point Therapy In Woodbridge

What is Trigger point therapy?

Trigger point therapy, also known as myofascial relief or pressure point massage, is the application of firm, but gentle pressure to certain areas of the body. These are called pressure points or trigger points. A skilled physical therapist who is trained in pressure point therapy will apply this pressure. Sometimes, the therapist might choose to use specific tools or devices to aid in force application.

Trigger point therapy uses manual pressure to normalize trigger points in the fascia. This fibrous tissue is a sheath-like fibrous tissue that surrounds your musculoskeletal systems. Fascia is a normal, flexible, and pliant tissue that protects muscles, nerves, tendons, and ligaments. It also helps them move in a coordinated manner. The fascia can become stiff and inelastic when there is too much stress, injury, poor posture repetitive movement, or poor nutrition. This can cause immobilization and pain as well as an increase in the risk of injury.

Trigger point therapy is designed to “release” tension and stress from the fascia and structures in targeted areas. This will restore normal movement and reduce your risk of tissue damage.

Where and what are the trigger points?

A knot is an area that feels tight, rigid, dense, or tender. Although they are not always obvious or easily noticed, “knots”, which are essentially the same as trigger points, can be used to describe them.

Trigger points can occur anywhere in the body, but are most common in the hips, shoulders, back, and hips. These trigger points are often caused by stress, illness, or injury to the connective tissues. Localized stiffness or discomfort can be caused by muscle spasms, decreased oxygenated blood flow, and possibly muscle fibers tensing up in spasms.

Trigger point pain is often referred to from other areas of the body. For example, a buildup of scar tissue, or a misalignment in the joints, can cause pain or spasms in nearby muscles. Pressure point pain is a common condition. A physical therapist can help you determine if there are more causes than just the obvious.

Conditions Treated by Myofascial Release in Woodbridge

Your body is made up of facial tissue. Therefore, adhesions or activated trigger points can affect many physiological systems and structures. Myofascial Release has been proven to be beneficial for many conditions by our physical therapy team, including:

• Sciatica
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Medial and latitudinal epicondylitis
• Whiplash
• Osteoarthritis
• Adhesive capsuleitis (frozen shoulder).
• Migraines and headaches
• Neck pain
• Pain in the back
• Thoracic outlet syndrome
• Temporo-mandibular joint disorder (TMJ).

What should I do to prepare for trigger point therapy in Woodbridge?

Our physical therapists recommend that you wear comfortable clothes and supportive shoes to maximize the effectiveness of your care. While physical therapy services often require active participation from patients, manual therapy sessions, which include trigger point therapy, allow for more passive and restorative roles.

When you arrive at your first consultation, one of our physical therapists will conduct a complete patient history questionnaire as well as a physical exam. We encourage you to ask questions to gain an understanding of your condition. This will allow us to provide you with a diagnosis and plan for care. Manual therapy may also be offered.

Our patients are encouraged to keep hydrated before, during, and after treatment. Hydration is vital for your body’s healing. The effects of passive and active therapeutic services, including pressure point massage, are enhanced when you consume plenty of fluids. If you are a heavy exerciser or have a demanding job, aim for one-third to one-half of your body weight in fluids daily.

Do you have chronic or acute pain?

Our staff invites you to schedule an appointment today. We can help you learn more about myofascial releases and other non-invasive, drug-free techniques. We are happy to help you find a physical therapist who can get you feeling better quickly.