Why 'Trigger Points' May Not Be What You Think

Welcome to a new way of understanding pain. If "trigger points" are truly isolated muscle issues, why do so many different people experience them in consistent anatomical locations? Instead of assuming they are just knots in muscle, let's explore a deeper explanation—one that considers nerve involvement, biomechanics, and systemic factors.

The Real Reasons Behind Common Pain Spots

Many areas commonly labeled as "trigger points" align with peripheral nerve branches or sensory hotspots, such as:

• Cluneal nerves (lower back & glutes)

• Occipital nerves (upper neck & head)

• Sciatic branches (hip & leg)

Rather than random muscle dysfunction, these areas may be nerve irritation zones, explaining why pain is so consistent across different people.

The fascial system is interconnected, meaning that tension in one area can create pain somewhere else. Common patterns include:

• Upper traps, glutes, and calves—high-tension areas from postural habits and repetitive movements.

• Pain in these areas often signals a larger movement dysfunction, rather than just a muscle "knot."

Certain pain locations correspond with high-stress mechanical areas:

• QL & upper traps → Poor postural compensation

• Glute med & TFL → Pelvic instability

• Forearm extensors → Chronic gripping/tension

Pain in these spots often results from compensation patterns and instability, not isolated muscle tightness.

The nervous system plays a significant role in pain perception. Stress, hypervigilance, or central sensitization can create widespread pain patterns—especially in muscles with high postural demand (like the traps and lower back). If pain persists, addressing nervous system regulation may be more effective than targeting muscle tightness alone.

Mislabeling & Overdiagnosis

The term "trigger point" is often applied as a catch-all diagnosis when the actual issue may be:

• Nerve entrapment

• Vascular compression

• Joint irritation

• Pain processing dysfunction

Simply "releasing" a trigger point without addressing its root cause may provide only temporary relief.

A Smarter Approach to Pain Relief

Rather than assuming all pain spots are "trigger points," a more effective approach includes:

• Assessing movement & biomechanics—What patterns are driving pain?

• Considering nerve involvement—Is there a referral pattern?

• Looking at systemic factors—How do stress and circulation play a role?

By shifting the focus from just symptom relief to identifying the root cause, we can provide long-term solutions for pain and movement dysfunction.

Ready to Move Beyond Trigger Points?

If you're experiencing persistent pain in these common areas, it’s time to look deeper than just muscle tightness. True relief comes from restoring stability, mobility, and neuromuscular function—not just "releasing knots."

Let’s work together to understand your pain and find lasting solutions.