Medically reviewed by M. Thurairaj, Registered physiotherapist. · Last reviewed June 2026.
What a trigger point is
Within a tense muscle, small areas can become especially tight and irritable. Pressing them often reproduces a familiar ache, and that ache can spread to a predictable nearby area. This is why neck trigger points can feel like a headache, or shoulder ones like an arm ache. They build up with posture, overload and stress, much like ordinary muscle tension.
How the technique works
The therapist applies sustained, controlled pressure to the tender spot, often holding until the sensation eases, then works the surrounding muscle. It can feel like a strong but satisfying ache, sometimes described as a good hurt, and should always stay within a pressure you control. Communicating how it feels lets the therapist adjust to keep it effective and comfortable.
When it is useful
Trigger point work suits muscular tension and referred aches such as tension headaches, stiff necks and tight shoulders. It is one tool among several, and is most effective combined with movement and addressing what loads the muscle in the first place. Pain with numbness, weakness or other warning signs needs medical assessment rather than trigger point work.
Key takeaways
- Trigger points are tight spots that can refer pain
- The technique uses sustained, controlled pressure
- It suits muscular tension and referred aches
- Always keep the pressure within your comfort
Frequently asked questions
Does trigger point therapy hurt?
It can feel intense as the pressure is applied, often a satisfying ache, but it should stay within your comfort. Tell the therapist if it is too much and they will adjust.
Why does pressing one spot ease pain elsewhere?
Trigger points can refer pain to a predictable nearby area, so releasing the spot in the muscle often eases the ache it was sending elsewhere.