What is Myofascial Trigger Point Therapy?Myofascial Trigger Point Therapy (MTPT) is a treatment used in the relief, possible elimination and prevention of muscle pain and dysfunction. It is non-invasive (no injections, needles or drugs are used) consisting of manual compression of trigger points, stretching and exercise. MTPT interrupts the pain-spasm-pain cycle by inactivating trigger points in muscles. Myofascial pain and dysfunction are unrecognized by many people including some healthcare professionals. Successfully treating myofascial pain by evaluating and correcting perpetuating factors is also uncommon. Often, people with myofascial pain are sent to therapists who begin a strengthening program without first treating the myofascial pain. This is often unsuccessful and may increase their pain.
Trigger points are hypersensitive areas which can occur in any muscle-causing pain and tightness. They can be caused by trauma occurring during accidents, sports, occupation, disease, or even birth. Physical or emotional stress frequently activate trigger points. Myofascial Trigger Point Therapy emphasizes patient education. As a support to the patient, family members and friends can be taught this program as well for use at the home. We specialize in recognizing the many factors that contribute the myofascial pain. We address those factors, determine the cause and treat the pain. Patient education is very important to us; we give a specific self-care program that the patient can do on their own to insure that they are able to maintain the improvement they are feeling. Finally, a reconditioning program which is appropriate to the patient's needs and within their ability is prescribed and reviewed to encourage continuation. |
More Frequently Asked Questions
Who developed Myofascial Trigger Point Therapy?Janet G. Travell, M.D, a pioneer in myofascial pain treatment, was President John F. Kennedy’s personal White House physician. She relieved his chronic back pain and made it possible for him to perform his day-to-day duties. Other contributors are Hans Kraus, M.D. and Bonnie Prudden. Ms. Prudden developed the first training program for Myofascial Trigger Point Therapists.
How does MTPT differ from other types of therapy like myofascial release, massage, acupressure, physical therapy etc?Myofascial trigger point therapists are extensively trained and specialize in the treatment of myofascial pain. Specifically, perpetuating factors are evaluated and corrected. Perpetuating factors are almost always the cause of myofascial pain that doesn't respond to other types of treatment. If they are not addressed, long-term success and pain relief is often not possible.
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How do I know if my pain will respond to treatment?Before we schedule an appointment for MTPT, a phone consultation with you will help us determine if MTPT is appropriate for you. There is no charge for this consultation. Since as much as 85% of the pain people suffer today is of myofascial origin, most people respond within 3-6 treatments after treatment has started if they follow the self-care program, often sooner.
Many common conditions respond well to treatment such as:
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How long before I feel relief?The total number of sessions varies depending on your current physical condition, the length of time you have had the problem, its severity and your level of of participation in your treatment. We will discuss a treatment plan with an approximate number of sessions. At the beginning, it is ideal to have 2 appointments per week for 2 weeks. This is not absolutely necessary, but this frequency will allow you to progress and feel the effects sooner than if there is a greater time between appointments.
You will also be given a stretch rehabilitation program specifically designed for your individual needs. This program will teach you how to treat your own muscles, how to stretch correctly and how to eventually strengthen those muscles. It is the key to maintaining pain relief and flexibility. Following this program as directed retrains the muscles to stay at their normal resting length in a pain-free state. We will also discuss your sitting/sleeping/desk positions and activities that contribute to pain so they can be eliminated or modified. This allows the body to enjoy correct posture without pain. |
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