What is the purpose of trigger point therapy?

Trigger point therapy is specifically designed to alleviate pain by applying pressure to particular areas within muscle tissue, known as trigger points. These trigger points are hyperirritable spots that can refer pain to other areas of the body, often causing discomfort or dysfunction. By focusing on these specific pain points, a therapist utilizes direct pressure and sometimes friction, which can help release tension and restore proper muscle function. This targeted approach not only reduces localized pain but can also alleviate referred pain, contributing to overall relief from discomfort.

The other options reflect different therapeutic aims. Enhancing overall fitness involves a broader scope, often relating to aerobic and strength training, while promoting relaxation is more aligned with techniques like Swedish massage, which emphasizes gentle and soothing strokes. Strengthening muscles through resistance is a focus in therapeutic exercise and physical training rather than in trigger point therapy. Thus, the purpose of trigger point therapy distinctly aligns with alleviating pain through the focused application of pressure on specific areas.