One of the most common causes of a stiff neck are trigger points in the levator scapulae muscle. This muscle runs up the side of the neck from the top of the shoulder blade. It helps to shrug the shoulders and move and stabilize the neck. When trigger points form in this muscle they will produce pain and stiffness in the neck. Deep tissue trigger point massage applied to these knots is an effective treatment method.
Myofascial trigger points in the abdominal muscles are very common. These muscles are responsible for trunk movement and stability, and are engaged in some way during most activities. As a result trigger points will easily form. These knots will often refer pain into the lower or mid back in a horizontal strip. Trigger points in the abdominal muscles are often overlooked as a source of back pain. Once developed, a trigger point won’t release on its own. A therapeutic modality such as trigger point massage is needed to release the tissue.
With all the sitting going on these days, tight hamstrings are becoming increasingly common. When your hamstrings are tight they almost certainly have trigger points. These contracted knots in the muscle are a common cause of pain felt in the back of the leg, knee and lower buttocks. Trigger points don’t go away with rest or stretching, they need a therapeutic intervention such as massage to be released.
Aberdeen Chiropractic 