Myofascial trigger point

The diagrams below show a simplified view of the mechanisms behind a painful ‘knot’ or myofascial trigger point

Step 1 - a normal neuromuscular junction

Step 1 - a normal neuromuscular junction

Step 2 - the motor nerve receives an electrical signal

Step 2 - the motor nerve receives an electrical signal

Step 3 - neurotransmitter chemicals are released to fire up the nerve fibres

Step 3 - neurotransmitter chemicals are released to fire up the nerve fibres

Step 4 - the neurotransmitter chemicals cause the muscle fibres to contract

Step 4 - the neurotransmitter chemicals cause the muscle fibres to contract

Step 5 - the neuromuscular junction does not shut down and continuously releases neurotransmitter chemicals causing a permanent contraction

Step 5 - the neuromuscular junction does not shut down and continuously releases neurotransmitter chemicals causing a permanent contraction

Step 6 - over time the situation worsens

Step 6 - over time the situation worsens

Step 7 - the muscle fibres compress their own blood vessels and compromise the supply of resources

Step 7 - the muscle fibres compress their own blood vessels and compromise the supply of resources

Step 8 - due to the lack of blood supply an energy crisis occurs which causes higher demands on the local metabolism. Ultimately the area releases chemicals that sensitise the pain nerves causing long term continuous pain.

Step 8 - due to the lack of blood supply an energy crisis occurs which causes higher demands on the local metabolism. Ultimately the area releases chemicals that sensitise the pain nerves causing long term continuous pain.