Understanding "Knots"

We've all experienced tension in our neck, shoulders or back. Tension that starts from a knot in the muscle and can radiate to other areas. These muscle knots are painful to the touch and can feel like someone actually tied our muscles up. 

The medical term for muscle knots is myofascial trigger points. These muscle knots are caused by an abnormal build up of protein after a release of lactic acid. Muscles that form knots are muscles that have gone into a muscle spasm either due to overuse, injury, or a sedentary lifestyle, and then have remained "stuck" in that tense state. A muscle knot is your muscle remaining flexed and refusing to relax, which is a big part of the reason they can be so painful. 

Basically, the muscle fibers are stuck together like glue in certain areas. These areas create a lump in the muscle, the knot you are feeling. 

Massage Therapy, more specifically, Trigger Point Massage, is the absolute best way to relieve yourself from the pain these knots cause. Trigger Point Massage will force theses muscle fibers to submit and retrain them to relax. It brings blood flow to the area (blood is our number one healer) acting as a lubricant to the stuck muscles and relieving pain. Sometimes it will take more than one session to completely relieve the muscle from its tense state. 

Potassium and calcium help to prevent muscle knots, and remaining hydrated is very important.

Become more aware of the way you move your body. Avoid hunching over, and when you are at work, take breaks to stretch and walk around. Your homework in retraining posture and drinking water will result in happier, healthier muscles!

By Irene Meiller

Meiller Massage
321 E. Main St. 
Canton, Ga 30114
770-877-0752