Myofascial trigger points represent a major cause of sustained pain and dysfunction. Extensive research and practice shows that all chronic pain conditions produce trigger points.

Myofascial Trigger Point Therapy is a proven technique used for the relief of soft-tissue pain and dysfunction.

Myofascial trigger points represent small areas of tightness within muscles, creating tight bands and 'knots' or tiny bumps from the contracted muscle fibers. Current literature indicates that nerve impulses to these muscle fibers will not "shut off" and that myofascial trigger points require some form of manual intervention to help them release.

All trigger points cause discomfort when pressed; however, "active" trigger points frequently refer pain to other areas of the body. As a result, many therapists address the site of the pain to other areas of the body. As a result, many therapists address the site of the pain, or the symptoms of trigger points, rather than the real problem area, or the site of the trigger point.

Pressure to an active trigger point will typically refer the sensation or symptoms to a distinct and predictable target area. In addition to pain, the effects of an active trigger point can include:

Limited range of motion

Muscle weakness

Numbness or tingling

Since an active trigger point refers pain to reference sites, it may invoke satellite, or secondary trigger points. As a result, acute conditions tend to turn chronic, and chronic conditions tend to get worse over time.

In Western medicine, documented research on trigger points dates back to 1841. However, most references give credit to Janet Travell, M.D., for the most extensive clinical research on Myofascial Trigger Point Therapy.