Understanding Trigger Points: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment at Thrive Ortho & Spine

Muscle pain is one of the most common complaints among patients with chronic pain or musculoskeletal conditions. At Thrive Ortho & Spine in Atlanta, our specialists frequently treat patients with pain caused by trigger points—tight, sensitive knots that form within muscle tissue and contribute to localized and referred pain throughout the body.

What Are Trigger Points?

Trigger points are small, hyperirritable areas in a muscle that feel like firm nodules under the skin. These knots occur when muscle fibers contract and fail to relax, often as a result of muscle overuse, trauma, or poor posture. Trigger points can limit range of motion, cause persistent stiffness, and even refer pain to other regions of the body, mimicking conditions such as sciatica, tension headaches, or neck strain.

Common Causes of Trigger Points

• Overuse of muscles during repetitive activities or exercise
• Poor posture at work or during long periods of sitting
• Stress and muscle tension
• Direct injury or trauma to muscles or connective tissue
• Chronic conditions such as fibromyalgia or myofascial pain syndrome

Symptoms to Watch For

Patients with active trigger points often describe a deep, aching pain that worsens with movement or touch. Other symptoms may include:

• Muscle tenderness and stiffness
• Reduced range of motion
• Referred pain that radiates to nearby areas
• Headaches or jaw discomfort linked to neck or shoulder tension

If left untreated, these symptoms can interfere with daily activities and quality of life.

How Thrive Ortho & Spine Treats Trigger Points

Our Atlanta-based team uses advanced diagnostic and therapeutic techniques to identify and relieve trigger point pain. Treatment options may include:

• Trigger Point Injections: A quick, minimally invasive procedure that delivers a small amount of anesthetic and anti-inflammatory medication directly into the affected area to relax the muscle and reduce pain.
• Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques such as myofascial release or deep tissue massage to improve circulation and restore normal muscle function.
• Stretching and Exercise Programs: Personalized physical therapy plans to strengthen muscles, correct posture, and prevent recurrence.
• Ultrasound Guidance: For precise localization of deeper or hard-to-access trigger points.

When to Seek Professional Help

If muscle pain persists despite rest or massage, or if you experience recurring stiffness that limits movement, professional evaluation is essential. At Thrive Ortho & Spine, our pain management specialists can determine whether trigger points are contributing to your discomfort and develop a customized treatment plan to provide lasting relief.

Get Pain Relief in Atlanta

Thrive Ortho & Spine is committed to helping patients in Atlanta identify the source of their pain and restore mobility through targeted, evidence-based care. Whether your symptoms stem from trigger points or another musculoskeletal condition, our experienced physicians are here to help you move better and feel better.

Schedule an appointment today with Thrive Ortho & Spine to discuss your pain management options and take the first step toward long-term relief.

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