kipupisteistä

Kipupisteistä, often translated as trigger points, are hyperirritable spots within a taut band of skeletal muscle. These points are locally tender when palpated and can give rise to characteristic referred pain, motor dysfunction, and autonomic phenomena. The exact physiological mechanism of trigger point formation is not fully understood, but theories suggest it may involve a localized sustained contraction of muscle fibers, leading to impaired blood flow and an accumulation of metabolic byproducts.

The diagnosis of trigger points is typically made through physical examination. A clinician will palpate the muscle, looking for nodules or taut bands and eliciting tenderness and referred pain patterns that are consistent with known trigger point locations. The referred pain can be a significant feature, as the pain experienced by the patient may be felt at a distance from the actual trigger point.

Treatment approaches for trigger points aim to inactivate the trigger point and restore muscle function. Common methods include manual therapy techniques such as ischemic compression, deep tissue massage, and stretching. Dry needling, where a thin needle is inserted into the trigger point, is another widely used technique. Other modalities like ultrasound, laser therapy, and spray and stretch may also be employed. Relief from trigger point pain can significantly improve a patient's range of motion and quality of life.