Trigger points are localized, sensitive areas within muscle or fascial tissue. They are commonly described as hyperirritable spots that can be felt as tender nodules or tense bands within a muscle. These points are particularly painful when pressure is applied and can cause pain not only locally but also in distant areas of the body—a phenomenon known as referred pain.

Trigger points are often classified into two types:

• Active trigger points, which cause pain even without direct pressure

• Latent trigger points, which are painful only when pressed

Both types can impair muscle function and contribute to chronic discomfort.

Myofascial pain arises when trigger points persist within the muscle–fascia system and repeatedly activate pain signals. Common contributing factors include:

• Muscle overuse or prolonged static loading

• Poor posture and faulty movement patterns

• Repetitive movements in work or daily life

• Psychological stress and sustained muscle tension

• Injuries, muscular imbalances, or lack of movement

Over time, trigger points can become long-standing pain generators, affecting surrounding tissues and movement quality.

The good news is that myofascial pain is treatable. Depending on severity and underlying causes, several therapeutic approaches may be effective:

Manual Therapy and Physical Techniques

• Trigger point therapy and myofascial release aim to reduce local tension

• Stretching and targeted mobilization improve circulation and tissue flexibility

Dry Needling and Injections

• Dry needling uses fine needles to deactivate trigger points and reduce muscle tension

• Trigger point injections with local anesthetics or other agents may help modulate pain in persistent cases

Physiotherapy and Movement Therapy

Individualized exercise programs focusing on posture correction, muscle balance, and controlled loading help prevent the recurrence of trigger points and restore normal movement patterns.

Self-Care and Prevention

• Regular stretching and relaxation exercises

• Ergonomic adjustments at work and in daily activities

• Stress management and conscious movement breaks