Frequently Asked Questions
Is trigger point therapy painful?
Although trigger points are painful and hypersensitive, trigger point therapy should never be overwhelmingly painful.
When receiving injections, some patients may have pain or temporary numbness and discoloration around the injection
site, may be lightheaded or dizzy, and slight bleeding. Even if patients experience any discomfort during treatment,
they can communicate with our team to change the level of pressure.
Is a therapy point therapy session the same as a body massage?
While some trigger point specialists are also certified massage therapists, there are several differences between the
two services. Trigger point therapy focuses on treating knots of tissue and relieving pain. Massage therapy may
release tension, but it has a broader mission of relieving tension and promoting relaxation.
What is the difference between dry needling and acupuncture?
There are some similarities between dry needling and acupuncture since they both involve needles to
relieve pain. However, acupuncture has been around for centuries and is largely regulated. Dry needling is a newer
and less researched method. Acupuncturists insert needles into different areas to stimulate energy flow throughout
the body, while during dry needling, the practitioner – typically a sports or physician therapist – inserts short,
thin, and stainless steel needles into specific trigger points.
Can I treat trigger points at home?
For less severe trigger points, it is possible to treat them at home with manual massage techniques and vibration
massage from a hand-held massager. However, for more severe trigger points, it is recommended that the patient go to
a professional and ask them about home methods they can do in combination with professional trigger point therapy.
Trigger points often cause pain in different body parts outside the strained muscle. A professional would be able to
treat the trigger point and the other painful sites better than an at-home treatment method.
How many sessions does it take to feel better?
Typically, patients feel significant relief after the first few sessions. However, each situation and patient is
different, so the duration may vary. Key factors are how long the patient has been in pain, how severe the pain is,
where the pain is, and the patient’s general health. The patient should also ask their therapist about how they can
address perpetuating factors to help treatment be more effective, such as posture, sleep, and nutrition.