What Are Trigger Points and Why Do They Hurt?

Many people experience sharp or nagging pain that lingers for weeks or even radiates to other parts of the body. Often, the actual source of the pain isn't where the discomfort is felt. This is a classic sign of trigger points — small areas of muscle tissue that can cause referred pain and persistent discomfort. To effectively manage this condition, it’s important to understand what trigger points are and why they develop.

What Is a Trigger Point?

A trigger point (also known as a myofascial trigger point) is a tight, contracted area within a muscle fiber that fails to relax. To the touch, it often feels like a small knot or lump in the muscle and can be painful when pressed.

Interesting fact: Pain from a trigger point often radiates — meaning it is felt in a different area than its origin. For example, a trigger point in the shoulder may cause pain in the neck, arm, or even result in headaches.

Why Do Trigger Points Form?

Trigger points can develop for a variety of reasons. The most common causes include:

• Chronic muscle tension — from poor posture, desk work, or holding static positions for long periods;
• Overuse and microtrauma — following intense workouts or physical strain;
• Stress and emotional tension — muscle tone is often directly linked to anxiety and mental stress;
• Poor circulation — leads to oxygen deprivation in the tissue and spasms;
• Lack of movement — even a sedentary lifestyle can contribute to trigger point formation.

When a muscle remains tense or injured for an extended time, it begins to contract and restrict blood flow. This sets off a vicious cycle: oxygen shortage → increased tension → more pain.

How to Recognize a Trigger Point

Trigger points can manifest in several ways, including:

• Local or referred pain;
• A sensation of “heaviness” or a “blocked” muscle;
• Restricted range of motion;
• Increased pain when pressure is applied to a specific spot.

These symptoms may be constant or appear only with certain movements, often making diagnosis difficult without a professional assessment.

How to Treat Them

The most effective approach for relieving trigger points is Trigger Point Therapy — a manual technique that targets specific areas of muscle tension. During treatment, the therapist applies gentle but deep pressure to the tight spots, helping the muscle release tension and restoring proper circulation.

Benefits of the therapy include:

• Relief from chronic and acute pain;
• Improved flexibility and mobility;
• Enhanced blood and lymphatic flow;
• Restoring natural balance in the body.

Trigger points are more than just knots — they’re real sources of pain and functional limitation. Ignoring them can lead to chronic issues and lower quality of life. But with accurate diagnosis and the right therapy, they are highly treatable. Consult a certified professional to restore freedom of movement and eliminate pain at its root — not just mask the symptoms.