How to Identify an Active Trigger Point in Massage

An active trigger point is where a muscle is in spasm. You can locate and defuse a trigger point by paying attention to the reaction when the point is pressed. The source of tension, which may feel like a "knot," also causes a twitch or sharp pain when pressed.

Instructions

1. Use a trigger point therapy guide to narrow down the zone of trigger points for the area you're working on. Palpate the muscle in that area with your fingertips or knuckles.

2. Look for spots that cause a sharp pain that radiates toward the area of referred pain, as those are active trigger points. Latent trigger points may cause the same electrical tingle, but only an active trigger point will hurt when pressed.

3. Press on the active trigger point for 10 seconds, then release. This pressure briefly hurts, but the release of tension afterward makes it worthwhile. Increased blood flow to the area as the muscle relaxes relieves longterm pain.

4. Notice where pain radiates when you press active trigger points and explore those other areas to find satellite, or referred, trigger points. You can keep them from becoming active trigger points by clearing them while they are still latent.

5. Revisit the active trigger points during each massage session to release any recurring muscle spasm areas and ease pain.