Trigger Point
Trigger points, simply described, are a protective mechanism in
the body. Where they form in each muscle and their effects on the body
are highly predictable. Releasing trigger points involves finding them
in the muscle and applying static pressure until the neuromuscular
connection is reset.
Reactions to trigger point massage vary greatly from person to person and from point to point. During the work, there is often sensation felt in other parts of the body, discomfort to varying degrees at the site of the trigger point, and very often there is an emotional release and a sense of returning blood circulation to the area once the point has been released. Afterward, there is commonly tenderness to the touch for one or two days and sometimes there is residual emotional release. The long-term effects of successful trigger point release are decreased pain and/or discomfort and greatly increased range and ease of motion.
Reactions to trigger point massage vary greatly from person to person and from point to point. During the work, there is often sensation felt in other parts of the body, discomfort to varying degrees at the site of the trigger point, and very often there is an emotional release and a sense of returning blood circulation to the area once the point has been released. Afterward, there is commonly tenderness to the touch for one or two days and sometimes there is residual emotional release. The long-term effects of successful trigger point release are decreased pain and/or discomfort and greatly increased range and ease of motion.
Deep Tissue
Deep tissue work is more than just firm pressure. It involves identifying where muscles are stuck to one another, where tendons are not moving freely, and where other connective tissue of the body is restricting muscular range of motion. While not usually painful, deep tissue work can cause some discomfort while the restrictions are being released.
This modality is commonly useful during recovery from injury, for chronically tense muscles, and for lessening the effects of repetitive stress. It is often used in conjunction with other neuromuscular therapies and trigger point massage.
