Trigger Point Release (TPR) is the final form of soft tissue work performed manually I will discuss in this series.
What are Trigger Points?
Trigger points are spots in the muscle fibers or “knots” that are sore and cause the increased pain we feel.
TPR is the process of applying pressure to or rubbing the trigger points. The with and cross fiber soft tissue mobilization are types of TPR (check out that post here)
However, this post will focus mainly on another type known as strain-counter strain.
Strain- counter strain
During strain-counter strain, the muscle is put in a stretch position (strain), pressure is applied to the trigger point with PT’s fingers or thumb, then while maintaining that pressure the muscle is then put into a shortened position (counter strain).
While performing, I will hold this final position for about 30 seconds and perform about 3 times. During this process, the therapist and patient may feel the trigger point disappear under the fingers.
In recent years, research has been done showing how effective it can be in reducing pain and trigger points. See research here.
Reasons
Strain-counter strain can be used on most patients I treat with trigger point pain. I will use it in place of Dry Needling on younger patients or those who do not tolerate needling.
Most patients will have relief after 1 treatment, but it may take a few sessions before the pain is completely resolved.
Trigger point release is a great tool a Physical Therapist or Physical Therapist Assistant can use to help a patient relieve their muscle pain.