One of the most common questions that our Massage Therapist Erin is asked: “Why do I have this knot in my back and HOW do I get rid of it?”. I have often wondered the same thing….
After some research, I learned that muscle knots are points within a muscle where contracted fibers are unable to release, or, as the dictionary puts it: “highly irritable localized spots of exquisite tenderness in a nodule in palpable taunt bands of muscle tissue.” Muscle knots—technically called Myofascial Trigger Points—feel like a small knot to your fingertips. These knots can range from the size of a pinhead in smaller muscles to the size of your thumb in larger muscles.
Trigger points in a constant state of contraction have excess metabolic waste and oxygen use because blood flow to this area stops—this sends pain signals to the brain.Because your brain wants to stop the pain, it commands the muscle to rest, which leads to under-usage of the muscle. This is what makes the muscle shorten and tighten up.The most common causes of muscle knots are: Accidents – Acute trauma, such as bad falls & sports injuries that strain you joints and muscles. Postural Stress – Sitting too long with poor posture, sitting with no support, & lifting improperly. Over stimulation – Strenuous exercise and sport activities, especially lifting weights.
To treat this issue, Erin recommends a type of massage called Trigger Point Therapy …
Trigger point massage therapy is specifically designed to alleviate the source of the pain through cycles of isolated pressure and release. In this type of massage for trigger point therapy, the recipient actively participates through deep breathing as well as identifying the exact location and intensity of the discomfort. The results and benefits of trigger point massage are releasing constricted areas in the muscles thus alleviating pain. You can experience a significant decrease in pain after just one treatment. Receiving massage with trigger point therapy on a regular basis can help naturally manage pain and stress and trust me, it is worth it!
Call the salon to book your next appointment with Erin at 585-872-9650!!