From the Research
A tight muscle in the back with a knot present is commonly referred to as a myofascial trigger point or muscle knot, characterized by a localized area of hyperirritability within the muscle tissue that feels tense, hard, and often painful when pressed, as described in the most recent study 1. This condition involves a localized area of hyperirritability within the muscle tissue that feels tense, hard, and often painful when pressed. The affected muscle typically feels tight and restricted in movement, with the knot itself feeling like a small, firm nodule or band within the muscle. When pressure is applied to this area, it may cause pain that radiates to other parts of the body, a phenomenon known as referred pain. This condition often results from muscle strain, overuse, poor posture, or stress, causing muscle fibers to become contracted and stuck in this shortened state. Some key characteristics of myofascial trigger points include:
- A taut band of skeletal muscle
- A hypersensitive bundle or nodule of muscle fiber of harder than normal consistency
- Pain locally and in a referred pattern
- Limited range of motion in the affected muscles
- Discomfort during daily activities The knot disrupts normal blood flow to the area, leading to the accumulation of waste products and creating a cycle of pain and tension. This muscle dysfunction can limit range of motion, cause discomfort during daily activities, and potentially lead to compensatory movements that may create additional muscle imbalances if left untreated, as supported by the study 1. Treatment options for myofascial trigger points may include massage, physical therapy, and osteopathic manual medicine as first-line less invasive treatment strategies, with trigger point injections reserved for patients whose myofascial pain has been refractory to other measures 1. It is essential to address myofascial trigger points to prevent further muscle imbalances and promote optimal muscle function, as highlighted in the study 2.