Why Are Trigger Points in Our Muscles Painful?

A trigger point, also known as a trigger point, is described as an area of significantly amplified sensitivity within a muscle or ligament. It can be palpated as a hard button or a kind of thickening along the muscle fibers or ligaments during palpation. Palpation of these points may lead to the occurrence of pain perceived in other parts of the body (specific to a particular muscle), local pain (at the site of palpation) or even autonomic reactions (e.g. swelling, vomiting). Moreover, trigger points may also appear in other tissues such as skin, fat tissue, tendons, ligaments, joint capsule or periosteum, however, they do not cause pain perceived in other parts of the body.

The roots of trigger points can be traced back to various forms of imbalance - for instance, in the case of muscle imbalance between the front and the back of the body due to an unhealthy diet (obese individuals), trigger points will manifest in the lower back in numerous locations, and likely deep within the abdominal cavity in the lumbar muscle. It is also possible that trigger points in muscles may arise due to the malfunctioning of internal organs (liver, intestines, pancreas). Metabolic disturbances within the muscles, triggered by excessive stress, poor diet, overtraining, or prolonged periods in a single posture (such as sitting in front of a computer), are also substantial contributors to the development of trigger points. During sustained muscle contraction, there is an increased demand for energy accompanied by a diminished blood flow, leading to a reduction in the supply of oxygen and energy necessary for proper function. Additionally, the elimination of metabolic byproducts is also impaired. Such a chronic condition ultimately results in the formation of a trigger point.

With the presence of trigger spots, one can sense substantial stiffness of movement. Muscles that exhibit the presence of trigger spots are substantially weakened. An important additional symptom indicating the presence of trigger spots is pain, which occurs in a certain characteristic area of a particular muscle and is documented on special maps. The pain occurs during activity, rest or palpation of the trigger spot.

Trigger points can be managed by performing a series of direct compressions over the area where they are located. This can sometimes be challenging to do on one's own. It is advised to apply pressure on the skin (not wipe) for a minimum of 10-15 seconds. If a reduction in pain is observed, the therapy should be continued until a significant relief is achieved. In some cases, a tennis ball, a roller, or a water bottle can be utilized for this purpose. Generally, trigger point therapy yields substantial results, however, it is essential to remember that if the actual cause of the trigger points is not eliminated, the symptoms will persist.