what the best way to get rid of myofascial trigger points?

Question

I know about trigger point massage, but am finding these exercises I've come up with work better (http://stretchwithme.com/2007/02/treating-trigger-points-with-exercise.html). Any ideas you have on this would be appreciated.

Answer 1

TPs can be treated in a number of different ways, depending on the speciality or training of the practitioner. Doctors may use local anaesthetic, saline, or cortisone injections, but acupuncture needling, use of a cold spray whilst stretching the muscle, or specific trigger point massage also works.
Some physiotherapists or masseurs have a real knack in treating TP . However there are good reasons to learn how to apply trigger point massage to yourself. With self-treatment you don't have to wait for an appointment, you can get help whenever you need it, and you don't pay a cent. You can be the expert in knowing how to get rid of your own pain

Answer 2

Read The Trigger Point Therapy Workbook by Davies.

Answer 3

Stretching is great but you can also do a slow controled rub on the spot for a few minutes or try direct pressure on the spot for 30 seconds then more pressure for another 20 secs. The pressure stops the blood flow and then there is a rush of blood when the pressure is released that sometimes helps to loosen the trigger point.

Answer 4

Ischemic compression technique involves applying sustained pressure on the trigger point. If you don't get rid of the TP entirely with this method, you'll get very sore the next several days. Besides, it doesn't take long for your thumb or fingers to wear out. My massage therapist showed me that if you apply pressure, (I use a "Back Buddy", right on top of the TP, then "stretch" it with the "grain" of the muscle, it takes much less pressure, & you get rid of the TP much faster than with ischemic compression. You're not nearly as sore in the days following, either.

Answer 5

I too practices trigger point therapy. In my opinion trigger point should be managed by Injection and stretch, alternative treatment such as ischemic compression, massage, heat , nutrition and drug therapy .Corrective actions such as postural positioning, exercises and modification of activities can be helpful.