What Causes Trigger Points? Understanding Muscle Overload and Dysfunction
Learn what causes trigger points, including muscular overload, poor posture, and repetitive strain. Understand how trigger points develop and how to manage them effectively.
Understanding the Cause of Trigger Points
Trigger points develop due to dysfunction in the myoneural junction, the site where nerve impulses signal muscles to contract. When this junction malfunctions, muscle fibers remain in a constant state of contraction, forming a painful knot known as a trigger point.
To properly address trigger points, it is essential to understand what causes this dysfunction in the first place. The primary cause is muscular overload, but various contributing factors can lead to the development of trigger points.
What is Muscular Overload?
Muscular overload occurs when a muscle is forced to perform beyond its normal capacity. This overload is not limited to lifting heavy objects but can also result from poor posture, repetitive movements, or prolonged static positions.
Common forms of muscular overload include:
- Exceeding contractile strength – A sudden demand that overpowers the muscle’s ability to contract safely.
- Exceeding endurance limits – Repetitive use that fatigues a muscle beyond its ability to recover.
- Prolonged shortened muscle position – Holding a contracted position for an extended period.
- Prolonged elongated muscle position – Stretching or maintaining an extended position for too long.
- Increased resting muscle tension – Stress and other factors can cause persistent tightness, leading to trigger point formation.
Common Causes of Trigger Points
Several lifestyle and physical factors can predispose muscles to overload, resulting in the formation of trigger points.
1. Traumatic Injury
- Falls, automobile accidents, or sports injuries can cause muscle strain and imbalances, leading to trigger point activation.
2. Heavy Lifting and Twisting Movements
- Lifting objects that are too heavy or using improper technique can overload muscles in the back, shoulders, and legs, leading to trigger points.
3. Beginning a New Exercise Program
- Sudden changes in physical activity or overtraining can cause muscle fatigue and trigger points due to poor adaptation to increased exertion.
4. Repetitive Movements
- Repetitive tasks such as typing, lifting, or assembly-line work can lead to overuse injuries and the development of trigger points.
5. Poor Posture and Static Positions
- Sitting for extended periods, hunching over a desk, or maintaining an unnatural posture for too long can place excessive strain on specific muscle groups, making them prone to trigger point formation.
6. Emotional Stress and Tension
- Stress-related muscle tension increases resting muscle tone, contributing to trigger points in areas like the neck, shoulders, and lower back.
7. Muscle Disuse or Immobilization
- Lack of movement after surgery or injury can weaken muscles, making them more prone to overload and trigger points once activity resumes.
8. Referred Pain and Motor Distortions
- Trigger points in one muscle can cause referred pain in another area, leading to secondary trigger points that exacerbate discomfort and dysfunction.
Acute vs. Chronic Trigger Points
- Acute pain cases – Trigger points directly correlate with recent muscle overload or injury and may resolve with targeted treatment.
- Chronic pain cases – Identifying the original cause requires a detailed history and examination, as multiple secondary trigger points may develop over time.
Preventing and Managing Trigger Points
By understanding the causes of trigger points, individuals can take preventive measures and integrate effective pain management strategies into their routine.
Prevention and Relief Strategies
✔ Maintain Proper Posture – Avoid slouching and ensure ergonomic work setups.
✔ Gradually Increase Physical Activity – Warm up before workouts and avoid overtraining.
✔ Avoid Prolonged Static Positions – Take regular movement breaks from extended sitting.
✔ Manage Stress Effectively – Incorporate deep breathing, meditation, or relaxation exercises.
✔ Stretch and Strengthen Muscles – Engage in regular stretching and strength training to maintain flexibility and muscle balance.
How NMSN Can Help with Trigger Point Therapy
At New Mexico Support Network (NMSN), we provide comprehensive services to help individuals manage muscle-related pain and improve mobility.
✔ Home Care Services – Supporting individuals with chronic muscle pain and mobility challenges.
✔ Hospice Care Assistance – Providing compassionate pain relief for individuals with terminal conditions.
Take Control of Your Pain Today
Understanding what causes trigger points is the first step toward effective pain relief. If you need professional support, contact New Mexico Support Network today.
Email: care@nmsupport.com
Phone: +1 833-773-0033 or +1 575-449-2009
Visit: New Mexico Support Network
