What should you know about neuromuscular trigger point therapy?

A trigger point is a tender spot in a muscle or its surrounding fascia that may produce pain locally or refer discomfort to another area. During a session, the practitioner identifies the relevant tissue, applies controlled pressure or hands-on techniques, and may combine this with stretching, joint movement, breathing, or strengthening. The aim is to reduce sensitivity and restore easier movement rather than to forcefully “break up” a knot. Trigger points can occur alongside [Myofascial Pain Syndrome](/conditions/myofascial-pain-syndrome/), but a tender spot does not by itself establish that diagnosis.

Tell the therapist about recent injuries, skin problems, medicines that affect bleeding, altered sensation, and conditions that change how you heal. During treatment, describe pressure as it happens; sharp, electric, or escalating pain is a reason to adjust the technique. Gentle movement, hydration, and the home exercises your therapist selects can support the session’s goals. Depending on the problem, [Trigger Point Therapy](/treatments/manual-and-manipulative-therapy/trigger-point-therapy/) may be used alone or alongside exercise-based rehabilitation. [Dry Needling](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/dry-needling/) is a separate technique that uses fine needles.

Contact the treating clinician if soreness is severe, lasts longer than expected, or is accompanied by increasing swelling, redness, fever, or new weakness. Seek urgent care for trouble breathing, facial swelling, sudden widespread weakness, or severe pain after an injury. If pain is unexplained, progressive, or associated with numbness, a medical assessment should come before repeated hands-on sessions.

What structure do you think is producing my pain? How will you distinguish a muscle trigger point from a nerve or joint problem? What should I feel during treatment, and what would be a warning sign? Which home movements should I practise between visits?