Trigger points are hyperirritable spots in taut muscle bands that refer pain to predictable locations — the upper trapezius, for example, sends pain up the side of the neck and into the temple. Standard massage often glides right over them; trigger point therapy targets them directly.
The therapist palpates the upper trapezius, rhomboids and levator scapulae until they find the taut band and the exquisitely tender spot within it. They apply ischemic compression — sustained pressure for 30–90 seconds — while the client rates the discomfort on a 1-to-10 scale. When the pain drops to a 3 or below, the point has released.
Trigger point work is more clinical than relaxing. Expect focused sessions of 30–45 minutes and mild soreness the next day, similar to a strength workout. Most clients need 3–6 sessions over 4–8 weeks to fully clear chronic trigger points.
Between sessions, apply moist heat, hydrate, and avoid the perpetuating factors — poor posture, dehydration, chronic stress and nutritional deficiencies like magnesium or vitamin D. Trigger points return when the underlying pattern doesn't change.