How Useful Massage Therapy is (2)
Another massage method that uses targeted pressure is trigger point therapy, a highly focused technique in which the therapist applies strong pressure on specific “trigger points” on the body. A trigger point is a painful spot in an overworked muscle that refers (sends) pain to other muscles. (That’s why an overworked muscle in your neck may be causing pain in your head.) Unlike shiatsu, trigger point therapy usually exerts pressure right on the painful areas.
For trigger point therapy to work, the therapist must really dig in and press hard and sustain that pressure for several seconds. This action flushes out toxins, calms the nerves, and releases the tension in that area. As you can imagine, trigger point therapy hurts while it’s going on but feels great when it stops. When my neck and shoulder muscles tighten up, sometimes the only thing that can release the tension is trigger point therapy. Often the results last for weeks.
For the really venturesome, there are more-strenuous forms of massage, including myofascial release, deep tissue massage, and Rolfing, all of which may involve some intense, painful probing into the muscles. Fingers, knuckles, and elbows may be used to release tension or loosen up the thin membrane called the fascia that covers the muscles and can become tight in response to stress, injury, or overuse.
Most massage therapists know several techniques, so you can work with your therapist to plan your own massage session. I prefer Swedish massage with occasional touches of shiatsu, but you may want something more vigorous or more focused to release chronic tension. Do whatever makes you feel the best. Just remember, you have alternatives, so ask your massage therapist about all of the possibilities.
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