Have you ever noticed a big knot in your shoulders at the end of a long day? Did you ever wonder why you get knots in your muscles that seem to come more and more frequently? At ProClinix Sports Physical Therapy and Chiropractic, our physical therapists, chiropractors, acupuncturist, massage therapists and nurse practitioners are experts at finding and getting rid of those knots so you can find relief once and for all!
What are trigger points?
Trigger points are areas of tight muscle fibers that may or may not be sensitive to touch. Often they form in your muscles after injuries or overuse. A trigger point in a muscle can impair the mobility of your soft tissue and joints, leading to pain. Some trigger points may even irritate the nerves around them and cause referred pain, or pain that is felt in another body part.
Trigger points often start from overuse-type injuries due to repetitively using the same body part in daily activities such as typing, using a mouse, gardening, and specific work environments with poor work ergonomics.
It is common to experience trigger points from heavy lifting and carrying activities like shoveling snow or lifting heavy boxes. For some, prolonged postures or awkward positions lead to the development of trigger points. And finally, it is thought that mental or emotional stress can lead to tensing and clenching that produces the trigger points.
Fortunately no matter the cause of the trigger points, at ProClinix Sports Physical Therapy and Chiropractic we have proven solutions!
How do trigger point injections work?
Trigger point injections (TPI), for example, can effectively loosen constrictions, promote mobility, and reduce pain. In the trigger point injection procedure, our nurse practitioner inserts a small needle directly into the trigger point and injects a local anesthetic (i.e., lidocaine) or saline. This technique releases the tension, the trigger point is made inactive, and the pain alleviates.
It’s essential to address issues when they begin, so they do not worsen over time. Manual therapies, including trigger point release, can complement the injections to reduce pain effectively. When combined with targeted stretches, the results improve even more!
Our team will identify specific stretches to alleviate pain and restore your motion. In addition, we will educate you on the movements and positions that are provoking your pain and educate you on the most effective exercises and postures to complement our hands-on interventions.
Request an appointment at ProClinix Sports Physical Therapy and Chiropractic today
If you’re living with pain in your muscles, ask about trigger point injections at ProClinix Sports Physical Therapy and Chiropractic today. Our healthcare providers are skilled individuals who have the knowledge and experience to help you find the pain relief you’re seeking.
Your Next Steps…
Request An Appointment
Receive A Custom Treatment Plan
Work Hard and Progress In Your Recovery
Recover & Enjoy Life Pain-Free!
