What Are Trigger Points?
Have you ever felt a tight knot in your muscle that just won’t go away? That’s often what we call a trigger point. A trigger point is a small, hyperirritable area within a muscle that feels tender to the touch. These points can cause localized pain or even refer pain to other parts of the body. For example, a trigger point in the neck might cause headaches or jaw pain, while one in the back might send discomfort down the leg.
Trigger points usually form due to:
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Muscle overuse or repetitive strain
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Poor posture
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Stress and tension
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Injury or trauma
How Are Trigger Points Released?
Massage therapy is one of the most effective ways to address trigger points. During treatment, your Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) will:
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Locate the Trigger Point – They’ll gently palpate the muscle to find the tight, tender spot.
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Apply Pressure – Sustained, controlled pressure is applied directly to the trigger point.
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Encourage Muscle Release – As circulation improves and tension decreases, the muscle fibres begin to relax.
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Stretch and Re-educate the Muscle – Your therapist may combine trigger point release with stretching to restore healthy movement and reduce recurrence.
Many patients describe this as a “good hurt” that leads to noticeable relief afterward.
Benefits of Trigger Point Therapy in Massage
Trigger point therapy doesn’t just release knots—it can improve your overall muscle health. Some of the key benefits include:
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Reduced muscle pain and tension
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Improved range of motion
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Relief from tension headaches
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Better posture and movement patterns
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Enhanced circulation and healing
For people dealing with chronic pain, stress, or repetitive strain injuries, adding trigger point therapy to regular massage sessions can make a significant difference in long-term recovery and comfort.
Massage Therapy in St. Catharines
At BodyLab Recovery Science in St. Catharines, our RMTs are trained in trigger point therapy and other evidence-based massage techniques. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, dealing with muscle tension from work, or simply want to move and feel better, massage therapy can help.
