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Muscle knots, (also known as myofascial trigger points,) are a common source of pain for people of all ages and physical conditions. These small, knot-like areas of muscle are often caused by tightening in muscle fibers or bands of tissue, (fascia), resulting in sore spots or aching in the surrounding soft tissue.
There are 2 basic classes of trigger points, (muscle knots):
- Active – pain exists in the affected area of the body without being touched or pressed.
- Latent – the affected area only hurts when being touched or pressed.
Muscle knots are most commonly formed in the trapezius muscle, (located in the upper back,) due to poor posture or excess stress. But they can occur in any part of the body where muscle is present, including:
- Lower back
- Shoulders
- Neck
- Calves
- Shins
- Glutes
Additionally, these knots may indirectly generate pain in other, unrelated areas of the body such as the lower back, head and jaw.
What causes muscle knots?
Any combination of factors may contribute to myofascial trigger points — here are some of the more typical culprits:
- Poor posture
- Stress / tension / anxiety
- Acute muscle injuries
- Prolonged, uninterrupted periods of sitting or lying down
- Repetitive motions
- Joint problems
- Unhealthy eating habits
- Dehydration
- Poor sleep patterns
What can be done to relieve the pain of muscle knots?
First and foremost, it’s important to consult with a qualified pain doctor, in order to ensure that the pain you’re experiencing is in fact the result of muscle knots, rather than some other source in the body.
If your specialist determines that muscle knots are the origin of your pain, it’s important to treat them as early as possible to prevent them from worsening.
If your case is detected early enough, your physician may recommend one or more of the following as a first-line remedy for your condition:
- Finding ways to reduce stress, such as mediation or deep breathing techniques
- Muscle massage
- Taking regular stretching breaks to reduce muscle tension after an injury or when sitting too much
- Application of heat or ice to the affected region of the body
- Steady pushing or rubbing pressure applied to the area of the knot
- Light aerobic exercise to loosen tight muscles
- Consistently getting the right amount of uninterrupted sleep
- Taking an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication
If your muscle knots are beyond the point where these simple remedies will bring relief, your pain doctor will advise you of your treatment options and recommend the most suitable method for your individual situation.
Is Your Back Pain More than Just Muscle Knots?
At Florida Pain Relief Centers, our pain management specialists are dedicated to providing effective, minimally invasive treatments options based on the unique nature of your pain.
Our pain experts are highly skilled and ready to consult with you to find the most effective treatment to help minimize your suffering and restore the quality of life you deserve to enjoy.
We want to help relieve your pain. Simply call Florida Pain Relief Centers today at 800.215.0029 or click the button below to schedule a consultation online.
