Trigger Points

A trigger point is a sensitive micro cramp in the myofascia.  The myofascia envelopes, separates and binds together muscle fibres.  Without muscle movement stiffness and a reduced fluid flow within the fascia will result.  If suppleness is not restored an unending circle of reduced movement creating further stiffness, diminished blood flow and suppleness will continue. 

There are four types of trigger points; active, latent, secondary and satellite.  An active trigger point is a localised area of pain in response to movement.  A latent trigger point is an area that has the potential to be like a trigger point and pain is not felt until pressure is applied to the sensitive spot.  A secondary trigger point is an area of pain that has been created due to a trigger point in another muscle.  A satellite trigger point is a painful area that has arisen because it is referred pain; the pain is felt elsewhere to the trigger point.  For example pain in the wrist can be from a trigger point from the back of the arm or armpit.

Trigger points form due to a number of reasons including an injury, lack of exercise, repetitive micro trauma, muscle overuse, joint problems and stress.  They can complicate injuries and can overshadow the original problem.