You have a choice!

Living in a pain free-functional body is now a possibility. Sufferers of headaches, TMJ dysfunction, carpal tunnel syndrome, fibromyalgia, arthritis, tennis-golf elbow, sciatica pain, low-back pain, frozen shoulder, painful legs, knees, feet and ankles can find relief through this remarkable therapy. Athletes, dancers and musicians can enhance performances and decrease or eliminate pain!

Myofascial Trigger Point Pain

The trigger point is a hyper-irritable focus within the muscle or fascia that causes taut bands and characteristic, predictable, referred pain. Trigger points cause the muscle to become shorter and tighter. This limits the function and mobility of the muscle which causes weakness, decreased circulation and pain. When injured, most tissues heal, but muscles learn — they learn to avoid pain. This muscle memory can produce unexpected pain years after an injury has occurred, especially during times of physical and emotional stress.

Treating the pain

The actual treatment session begins with a patient history. Your pattern of pain is precisely documented, your range of motion is assessed and your muscles are palpated for the presence of trigger points. When a trigger point is located, a slow sustained pressure is applied.

Initially, the trigger point may be very tender, but gradually this decreases and as the pain fades, the muscle begins to relax. The referred pain will decrease and a specific stretch of the muscle will be done. This process of trigger point release and stretch decreases pain and restores normal functioning.

Following a session, which typically lasts one hour, you will be given a home stretch program specific to your needs. Goals are set at your initial evaluation and periodically reassessed. Lasting results require an on-going commitment to a stretch/exercise program that not only retrains but conditions muscles.
This program, along with your health care team’s management of systemic and mechanical factors that perpetuate trigger points, is an integral part of your wellness. Suggestions for improved ergonomics and alterations in activities of daily living serve to enhance your ability to achieve an active, healthy lifestyle.

Response to treatment varies. Some clients experience superficial soreness following therapy. Warm baths, showers, stretching and rest are helpful in reducing soreness. You may experience fatigue as the chronically tight musculature is allowed to relax and return to its normal length. Some clients experience an increase in energy.

Minimizing stress, pacing your activities and listening to your body are very important in healing. Your individual rate of improvement depends upon your general health, weight, level of fitness, underlying physical conditions and compliance to the treatment program.

What you can do…
Healing begins when you become an active participant in your treatment!

Obtaining the right therapy for your problem is essential. Knowledge of myofascial pain and trigger points by the medical community varies. Educating yourself and sharing information with
your health team facilitates care.

Eliminating perpetuating factors such as anemia, hypothyroidism, hypoglycemia and leg-length discrepencies greatly enhances your outcome. Medications to reduce pain or restore sleep may be helpful.

Getting Treatment

Call for an appointment: Elaine Lennox RN, CMTPT (585) 292-1459

• Initially three sessions are scheduled.
• More or less may be required depending on the severity of your condition.
• Payment is on a fee for service basis
• Insurance reimbursement is the responsibility of the client when applicable.