Chronic muscle pain is one of the most common health issues in modern life. In particular, fibrositis and myofascial trigger points can cause muscle tension, pain, and restricted movement, negatively impacting the quality of life. At this point, manual therapy stands out as a natural and effective treatment method.
In this article, we will discuss what fibrositis and trigger points are, the effects of manual therapy on these issues based on scientific research, and current treatment approaches.
What Are Fibrositis and Trigger Points?
Fibrositis is a condition characterized by chronic pain, tenderness, and stiffness in muscle tissue. Often confused with fibromyalgia and myofascial pain syndrome, fibrositis can cause pain in specific areas of the muscles.
Trigger points are defined as sensitive knots within muscle fibers and typically arise due to the following reasons:
✔ Overuse or trauma to muscles
✔ Circulatory disorders and oxygen deficiency within muscles
✔ Poor posture and postural imbalances
✔ Muscle spasms caused by stress and tension
Trigger points can produce both local and referred pain. For example, a trigger point in the neck muscles may lead to headaches.
The Effect of Manual Therapy on Fibrositis and Trigger Points
Manual therapy is a scientifically supported method proven to be effective in the treatment of trigger points and fibrositis. This therapy:
✅ Reduces muscle tension
✅ Improves oxygen intake in tissues by increasing blood flow
✅ Helps release trigger points, thereby reducing pain
✅ Enhances range of motion, supporting muscle function
Methods Used in Manual Therapy
- Ischemic Compression – Direct pressure is applied to trigger points to relieve spasms.
- Deep Tissue Massage – Helps dissolve knots in muscle fibers and improve circulation.
- Stretching Techniques – Increases muscle flexibility and relaxes trigger points.
- Dry Needling – Special needles are inserted into trigger points to relieve muscle spasms (must be performed by specialists).
Scientific Research Supporting the Effectiveness of Manual Therapy
Below are three key scientific studies proving the effectiveness of manual therapy:
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Study: The Relationship Between Manual Therapy and Fibromyalgia
Falaguera-Vera and Garcia-Escudero (2020) evaluated the effects of manual therapy on fibromyalgia patients. The study found that patients who received manual therapy experienced a significant increase in their pain threshold. Moreover, a notable improvement in quality of life was observed post-treatment.
Source: Falaguera-Vera, F.J., Garcia-Escudero, M. et al. (2020). Pressure Point Thresholds and ME/CFS Comorbidity as Indicators of Patient’s Response to Manual Physiotherapy in Fibromyalgia. MDPI -
Study: Myofascial Trigger Points and Manual Therapy
Dommerholt and Bron (2006) researched the effectiveness of manual therapy in treating trigger points. The study revealed that myofascial trigger points were significantly resolved through manual therapy, leading to reduced pain in patients. It highlighted that deep tissue massage and ischemic compression were particularly effective in treating trigger points.
Source: Dommerholt, J., Bron, C., Franssen, J. (2006). Myofascial Trigger Points: An Evidence Informed Review. Taylor & Francis -
Study: The Link Between Fibrositis and Myofascial Trigger Points
Simons (1986) examined the relationship between fibrositis and myofascial trigger points. The study suggested that fibrositis could actually be a chronic pain condition linked to trigger points. Additionally, it was observed that when trigger points were relieved through manual therapy, fibrositis symptoms also improved.
Source: Simons, D.G. (1986). Fibrositis/Fibromyalgia: A Form of Myofascial Trigger Points? ScienceDirect
Who Can Benefit from Manual Therapy?
- Individuals suffering from chronic muscle pain
- Patients diagnosed with myofascial pain syndrome or fibromyalgia
- Athletes experiencing muscle tension due to overuse
- Individuals with muscle pain caused by poor posture
However, manual therapy may not be suitable for individuals with certain musculoskeletal disorders and circulatory conditions. Therefore, consulting a specialist is essential.
Conclusion
Scientific research supports the positive effects of manual therapy on fibrositis and trigger points. Manual therapy accelerates the healing process by reducing muscle tension and alleviating pain. Techniques such as deep tissue massage, ischemic compression, and dry needling have been shown to be particularly effective in relieving trigger points.
If you are experiencing chronic muscle pain, you can explore scientifically supported manual therapy methods for natural relief!
References:
- Falaguera-Vera, F.J., Garcia-Escudero, M. et al. (2020). Pressure Point Thresholds and ME/CFS Comorbidity as Indicators of Patient’s Response to Manual Physiotherapy in Fibromyalgia. MDPI
- Dommerholt, J., Bron, C., Franssen, J. (2006). Myofascial Trigger Points: An Evidence Informed Review. Taylor & Francis
- Simons, D.G. (1986). Fibrositis/Fibromyalgia: A Form of Myofascial Trigger Points? ScienceDirect
