How Massage Therapists Use Trigger Point Therapy to Help Clients Heal

If you’re considering a career in massage therapy, a method you’ll undoubtedly need to learn yourself is “trigger point therapy.” This massage technique addresses painful and constricted areas in muscles, so-called “knots“—that create pain and restriction of movement. 

Massage therapists apply precise pressure to trigger points on muscles to ease pain and discomfort, enhance circulation, and facilitate the body’s internal healing mechanism.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the mechanism behind trigger point therapy, explain why it works so well, and outline how you can apply it to make a tangible difference in your clients’ lives.

What Are Trigger Points?

Trigger points are tight spots within the muscle that can lead to pain. You may find them as small knots under the skin. They don’t hurt only where they are located; sometimes, they also pressure other body parts. For instance, a trigger point in the back may break the neck or head.

Massage therapists learn how to locate and work these points. They press and release the muscle using their fingers or a special instrument. Their work helps the body heal more rapidly and feel more comfortable.

How Massage Therapists Treat Trigger Points

When treating trigger points, the massage therapist applies pressure and releases. The knot is gently compressed until the area softens. The muscle may be stretched afterward to keep the area relaxed.

Another method is “spray and stretch,” where a cold spray is applied first to relax the muscle before stretching it out. Whichever method they use, the objective remains: to have the muscle return to normal and eliminate the pain.

Why Trigger Point Therapy Matters

Many people live with daily pain and don’t even realize it’s coming from a trigger point. Therapists who know how to find and treat these spots can change someone’s life in just a few sessions.

Trigger point therapy is particularly beneficial for individuals who have:

• Painful back
• Neck and shoulder tension
• Sports injuries

Since it’s effective, numerous clients search for therapists who are qualified to use this type of therapy. That means if you understand how to do it, you’ll have a significant advantage in your career.

Where Massage Therapists Work

Learning such skills as trigger point therapy opens doors of opportunity in many interesting workplaces. You might work at:

• Costly resorts and day spas
• Massage therapy clinics
• Chiropractic clinics
• Physical Therapy Centers

Massage therapists are in great demand. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs as massage therapists are projected to grow 18% from 2022 through 2032 — a much higher ratio than most occupations! That means there will be numerous opportunities ahead of you.

How You Can Get Started

If you aim to become a certified Massage Therapist, Northwest Career College is here to help you. Our comprehensive program can be completed in as little as six months, preparing you for opportunities in various settings, including spas, hotels, clinics, and chiropractic offices. Financial aid options may be available for those who qualify, making it even easier to take the next step. Enroll now at Northwest Career College today.