Neuromuscular Therapy or trigger point therapy aims to relieve stress and release tension in the trigger point by placing firm pressure directly over the taut tissue for 30 seconds to 2 minutes. The goal of applying sustained pressure is to manually “soften” the fibers and make them “loose.” After the fibers are loosened, blood flow is stimulated into the area (which was previously deprived of adequate blood and oxygen) to foster healing and eventually relieve pain. Massage therapists trained in neuromuscular massage can pinpoint trigger points by understanding the pain patterns of the patient.

It is important to note that pressing a myofascial trigger point will elicit pain, and it’s essential for patients to effectively communicate with their therapists if the pain is tolerable or not. The pain should fade shortly after the pressure is released. Mild soreness may occur in the treated area for a few hours, which may be alleviated with topical pain medication or ice therapy.

A therapist trained in trigger point therapy can examine the muscle and evaluate the number of therapy sessions that may be needed to improve tone, balance, and muscle strength.Trigger point  therapy may help loosen tight muscle tissue(s) and improve muscle balance, allowing patients to have better posture and support their spine. The range of motion of joints is also enhanced due to the improved health of muscle tissue that attaches to the joints.