Myofascial trigger point therapy in Basel - treating pain at its source

A trigger point can feel like a small lump and is often sensitive to pressure. In many cases, it causes discomfort that spreads to other parts of the body - a phenomenon known as referred pain. Trigger points are particularly common in the neck, shoulder or buttock area, for example in people with a sedentary job or one-sided strain.

Trigger point therapy aims to release these painful muscle areas, improve circulation and restore mobility. Targeted manual techniques are used for this - such as trigger point massage, in which pressure is applied to the affected areas.

As an effective supplement, PhysioART also uses the Dry needling is used - a special technique in which the trigger points are treated with fine needles.

Trigger points are often caused by overloading the muscles, e.g. through repetitive movements, incorrect posture or stress. This excessive strain leads to muscular hardening or weakness in certain areas, which can be felt as trigger points. Traumatic injuries or straining movements can also lead to muscle fibres no longer relaxing properly and hardening.

The most important causes at a glance:

• Overloading the muscles: Repetitive movements or monotonous activities (e.g. sitting for long periods, heavy physical labour) can cause trigger points.
  
• Wrong posture: One-sided strain or unfavourable positions, such as sitting at a desk, often lead to tension and trigger points in the neck and shoulder area.
  
• Stress and psychological strain: Chronic stress leads to increased muscle tension, which in turn favours trigger points.
  
• Injuries and traumas: Strains, falls or accidents can also cause trigger points, as they damage the muscle fibres and lead to a change in strain.
  

These muscle tensions and circulatory disorders can not only cause pain, but also restrict mobility and reduce muscle strength. This often results in movement deficits or coordination problems.

Myofascial trigger point therapy is suitable for all people who suffer from muscular pain or restricted movement - regardless of age or level of sport. We use this method particularly frequently with patients for whom traditional therapies have not brought the desired success or who want to work specifically on the cause of the pain.

Typical indications:

• Chronic muscle tension - e.g. in the neck, back, shoulder or buttock area
  
• Headaches and migrainestriggered by muscular trigger points
  
• Pain with radiationfor example in the arms, hands, buttocks or legs
  
• Movement restrictionsthat are not attributable to structural damage
  
• Sports injuries or muscular overload
  
• Office-related poor posturesitting in front of a screen for long periods of time
  
• Stress-related complaintssuch as tension pain or muscular overexcitation
  

Even if your symptoms appear diffuse or no clear cause has been found, it is worth trying trigger point therapy - because the muscles themselves are often behind chronic pain.

The treatment can be uncomfortable for a short time as the trigger points are pressed or needled. Many patients describe the feeling as "soreness". However, the relief afterwards is usually immediate.

In many cases, patients feel an improvement after the first treatment. In the case of chronic complaints or complex symptoms, a series of sessions may be necessary.

This depends on the severity and duration of the symptoms. As a rule, we recommend 3-6 sessions, more if necessary. An individual assessment is made at the first appointment.

Regular exercise, ergonomic sitting, targeted stretching exercises and stress reduction help to prevent trigger points. We will show you suitable exercises for your individual needs.