Lower Back Trigger Points – Therapy and Pain Relief

Lower back pain strikes millions of individuals worldwide. It can range from mild discomfort to debilitating pain that impacts daily life. One possible cause of lower back pain is trigger points. A trigger point is defined as an area of increased sensitivity in a muscle or fascia.

These tight knots of muscle tissue can cause pain and discomfort in the affected area. These points can develop due to overuse, injury, or prolonged periods of inactivity. 

Trigger point therapy is a common treatment option for low back pain. This technique involves applying pressure to the affected area to:

• Release tension;
• And promote healing.

Other treatment options include stretching, exercise, and physical therapy. In some cases, medications can help manage pain and discomfort. 

Based on our chiropractic and scientific observations, patients who received trigger point therapy experienced significant improvement in pain, range of motion, and quality of life.

By understanding the symptoms and treatments of lower back trigger points, you can take steps to manage your pain and improve your well-being.

What Are the Trigger Points?

Trigger points are localized areas of tightness or knots that can occur in muscles and other soft tissues. These points can cause pain, discomfort, and even referred pain in other body areas. Trigger points are typically caused by muscle overuse, back injury, or poor posture.

There are two types of trigger points:

• Active;
• And latent. 

Active trigger points are painful and cause discomfort even at rest. Latent trigger points are not painful unless pressure is on the affected area.

These knots can be in various body parts, including the neck, shoulders, back, hips, and legs. In the lower back, trigger points can cause ache that radiates down the legs, known as sciatica.

To prevent these points from developing, it is important to:

• Maintain good posture;
• Stretch regularly;
• And avoid activities that put excessive strain on the lower back muscles.

Trigger point therapy can be performable by a trained professional, such as:

• Physical therapist;
• Or massage therapist.

It’s important to address lower back pain promptly. As it can lead to further complications if left untreated.

Symptoms of Lower Back Trigger Points

The most widespread lower back trigger points symptoms are dull and aching pain. The symptoms can vary depending on the trigger points’ location and severity. Thanks to our knowledge gained in practice, we can highlight the most common symptoms:

1.Dull and aching pain. Lower back points can cause persistent or intermittent dull, aching pain. It can feel deep within the muscles of the lower back. This pain can aggravate with certain movements or activities. And it can be worse in the morning or after prolonged periods of inactivity.

2. Radiating pain. Trigger points can result in pain that radiates to other parts of the body, such as:

– hips;

– buttocks. 

This pain can feel like a sharp, shooting sensation or a more diffuse ache. And it can be on one or both body sides.

3. Reduced range of motion. As a result of muscle stiffness or tightness, you can have a reduced range of motion in the lower back. This can make it difficult to:

– bend over;

– twist;

– or perform other movements that involve the lower back muscles.

4. Muscle stiffness or tightness. Trigger points can cause the lower back muscles to become stiff or tight. It makes it difficult to move or perform everyday activities. You can:

– feel a sense of tension or pressure in the muscles;

– or notice that your range of motion is limited.

5. Tender knots or nodules. These knots can be visible or palpable and can feel sore or tender to the touch.

6. Numbness or tingling. In some cases, trigger points cause nerve compression. It can result in tingling or numbness in the legs or feet.

Trigger Point Therapy for Low Back Pain

The most widespread trigger point therapy techniques include: 

• Manual pressure release dry needling;
• Massage therapy.

 But when is it essential to start trigger point therapy for low back pain?

• If the pain is chronic. Based on our chiropractic experience with chronic pain management, we can state that early treatment can help:

– prevent the development of more severe symptoms;

– and improve overall outcomes.

• If the pain affects your daily activities. It is important to seek treatment as soon as possible if you have problems in:

– walking;

– standing;

– or sitting for extended periods.

• If other symptoms go with the pain. They are numbness, tingling, weakness, or bladder or bowel control loss. These symptoms can state a more serious underlying condition that requires prompt treatment.
• If the pain is interfering with sleep. Chronic pain can interfere with sleep, which can further exacerbate the condition. 

There are several common trigger point therapy techniques to treat lower back pain. These techniques include:

1.Manual pressure release

It involves applying sustained pressure to the point using fingers or a massage tool. The pressure lasts for several seconds or until the muscle relaxes. This can help release tension and reduce pain.

2. Massage therapy

It comprises kneading and manipulating the muscles. It releases tension and improves circulation. It is important to note that massage therapy for trigger points should only be performable by a licensed massage therapist.

3. Heat therapy

It encompasses applying heat to the affected area. It helps increase blood flow and relax the back muscle trigger points. It can be particularly effective when combined with other treatments. They are stretching and massage.  

4. Electrical stimulation

It involves using small electrical currents to stimulate the muscles and reduce pain. This technique can be beneficial for those with chronic pain.

5. Dry needling

This incorporates using small needles. They penetrate the skin and release tension in the point. This technique can help to improve blood flow and reduce aches and inflammation.

6. Ultrasound therapy

It incorporates using high-frequency sound waves to stimulate the muscles and reduce pain. It means applying an ultrasound transducer to the affected back trigger points. 

This device emits high-frequency sound waves that penetrate deep into the muscles. It causes them to vibrate and produce heat. It is generally painless and does not require any downtime. 

7. Self-care

In addition to receiving professional trigger point therapy, several self-care techniques exist. These can include maintaining good posture and engaging in regular exercise. And it also entails practicing stress reduction techniques. They are meditation or deep breathing.

When You Shouldn’t Use Lower Back Trigger Point Therapy

You should not use this therapy for low back pain if:

1. You have underlying medical conditions. They can be herniated discs or spinal stenosis. They cause your low back pain. And the therapy can not be effective. It could also make your condition worse.
2. You have a spinal injury or instability. In this case, it could exacerbate your condition and cause further damage.
3. You have a history of blood clots or bleeding disorders. Trigger point therapy involves applying pressure to the affected back muscles. And it can cause bruising or bleeding. This therapy can be unsafe for you if you have a history of blood clots or bleeding disorders.
4. You are pregnant. This therapy could potentially harm the developing fetus.
5. You have skin or tissue damage in the affected area. It can be an open wound or infection. 

If you are unsure whether this therapy is appropriate, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before attempting any treatment.

A Word from All Injury Rehab & Chiropractic Therapists

In conclusion, trigger point management is a highly effective form of manual therapy. It involves identifying and treating back muscle trigger points to ease pain and discomfort. 

According to our chiropractic experience, we can note that it is important to:

• Receive an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan from a healthcare professional;
• And follow up regularly for the long-term effectiveness of trigger point therapy.

How can All Injury Rehab Chiropractic therapists help you?

All Injury Rehab & Chiropractic therapists will help you in trigger point therapy for low back pain. They provide a comprehensive diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. 

They have extensive knowledge and experience in identifying trigger points. They use various techniques to alleviate aches and discomfort. You can receive effective and personalized trigger point treatment by working with our therapists. 

Don’t let lower back trigger points control your life! Explore the different therapy and pain relief options and take control of your pain today!