He'll then press directly on the tender points for eight to 12 seconds. This may feel uncomfortable but shouldn't be painful, since pain will just cause the muscle to contract further. Once he feels the trigger points release, the therapist will continue to work on the surrounding muscles so that they won't tighten up again. You may feel soreness in the area for a day or two afterward. A few studies have found trigger point therapy effective in easing low-back pain.
Sessions typically last an hour.
Prices are comparable to other forms of massage. The theory, developed by a physical therapist, holds that trauma, illness, or stress can cause your fascia to tighten up and pull bones and muscles out of place, causing pain and stiffness. The pressure is gentle and should not be painful. Few studies have tested this technique, but one small trial found that myofascial release reduced pain and numbness in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome. Sessions last 30 to 90 minutes and cost about the same as other massage therapies.