Myofascial Release & Trigger Point Therapy

What Is Myofascial Release Therapy?

Myofascial release therapy is a type of manual therapy that can be used to alleviate pain by working on the muscles and tendons of the body. This type of therapy is similar to a massage although it is more targeted at the individual areas of discomfort. Myofascial release is great for loosening up tight musculature which allows the area to relax and become less painful.

The muscles and the fascia are parts of the musculoskeletal system that work together to propel the body. While most people know what muscles are, fascia is a relativly unkown term. The fascia is the connective tissue that attaches the skin, muscles, and other internal organs together. When myofascial release therapy is used for treating pain it is often performed over larger areas of the body and not just over the area that is painful. (If you want a clearer medical definition of myofascial pain syndrome, this overview explains common symptoms and how trigger points can refer pain.)

Myofascial release therapy is often performed with a manual therapists hands but it can also be done with different types of tools. When it is performed it is often relaxing in nature though sometimes the treatment can feel like a deep stretch. A well trained practitioner will thoroughly communicate with their patient as the treatment is on going. This allows the patient to relax and understand what is happening. (For patients who want a plain-language explanation of myofascial release therapy, this summary is helpful.)

It is often effective to add patient guided movement in with myofascial release. This moves the muscles and the joints through their normal range of motion while the are is being worked on. When a patient is suffering from a sprain or a strain this can be particularly useful. With this technique the area can be rehabilitated quickly.

What Is Trigger Point Therapy?

Trigger point therapy is another type of manual therapy but is generally more focused then myofascial release. While myofascial release works on large parts of the body trigger point therapy is focused on small, often dime sized, areas. (This medical overview of trigger points and referred pain explains why pain can show up away from the tight spot.)

Trigger point therapy originates from the work of Janet Travell M.D. & David Simons M.D. They studied trigger points and essentially developed trigger point therapy. They surmised that trigger points could cause pain that reffers to other parts of the body. For instance a trigger point in the neck can cause pain that goes up the neck and around the head, which can give a patient headaches. (If you want a deeper clinical explanation of how trigger points are identified on physical exam, this medical reference covers typical findings and risk factors.)

If you have ever felt a muscle knot then you have felt a trigger point. A trigger point is an area of muscle that has contracted and does not relax. It is theorized that this is due to restricted blood flow during a contraction. When trigger point therapy is performed the goal is to get the contraction to release.

Trigger point therapy is performed by applying direct pressure over the trigger point. This is believed to bring blood flow back to the area which allows for the muscle to relax. (For people comparing options, this summary of massage therapy evidence for pain is a useful high-level review.)

Is Myofascial Release or Trigger Point Therapy right for you?

If you suffer from neck pain, back pain, headaches, or have suffered a musculoskeletal injury then myofascial release or trigger point therapy may be right for you.

The only way to know for sure is by having a through history and examination performed by a qualified practitioner. Some individuals may completely respond to these therapies while others may only temporarily respond, not respond at all, or even have their condition flare up. An in-depth examination performed helps to separate the responders from the non-responders. It can also determine the root cause of the problem for both the responders and the non-responders.

Why see us?

At The Pittsburgh Chiropractor you will be treated one on one by Dr. Tauberg. Dr. Tauberg has advanced training in soft tissue work is a Certified Chiropractic Sports Practitioner and a Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist. He has worked with all level of athletes. Being treated by a highly trained professional ensures that you are receiving the right care, reduces the risks, and are provided the appropriate type of therapy. This allows you to receive the best care possible so that you can feel like your optimal self.

What should you do next?

Call and schedule your complimentary discover visit today! During your discovery visit you I (Dr.Tauberg) will meet with you and discus your condition.

I can then give you a better idea on what is going on with your condition and if you are likely to respond well to myofascial or trigger point therapy.

If I don’t think I can help you I will tell you so and help you find someone who can.

Call me at 412-517-8124 or schedule a call below!

Myofascial Release & Trigger Point Therapy in Pittsburgh

Many people throughout Pittsburgh, Fox Chapel, Oakmont, and the surrounding communities struggle with tight muscles, chronic pain, and restricted movement. Treatments such as myofascial release therapy and trigger point therapy are commonly used in sports medicine and rehabilitation settings to help restore normal muscle function and reduce pain. These therapies are often helpful for conditions such as back pain, neck pain, muscle tightness, and overuse injuries from sports or exercise. At The Pittsburgh Chiropractor, these treatments are commonly combined with rehabilitation exercises and other conservative treatments to help patients return to their normal activities as quickly and safely as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does trigger point therapy hurt?

Trigger point therapy can feel uncomfortable while pressure is applied to a tight muscle knot, but the discomfort is usually temporary. Many patients experience relief and improved movement shortly after treatment.

What conditions can myofascial release help?

Myofascial release therapy is commonly used for muscle tightness, sports injuries, chronic pain, and conditions involving restricted movement. It is frequently used as part of treatment plans for back pain and neck pain.

How many treatments are needed?

The number of treatments needed depends on the individual condition being treated. Some patients notice improvement after a few sessions, while others may require a longer rehabilitation program depending on the severity of the problem.

Work Cited

Bauer, Brad. Myofascial release therapy: Can it relieve back pain? 4 20, 2019. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/back-pain/expert-answers/myofascial-release/faq-20058136 (accessed 5 24, 2019).

Ganfield, Lisa. Myofascial Release Therapy. 08 06, 2009. https://www.spine-health.com/treatment/physical-therapy/myofascial-release-therapy (accessed 5 24, 2019).

Ingraham, Paul, and Tim Taylor. Trigger Points & Myofascial Pain Syndrome. 5 22, 2019. https://www.painscience.com/tutorials/trigger-points.php (accessed 5 24, 2019).

About the Author

Medically reviewed by Dr. Alex Tauberg, DC, RN, CCSP®, PSP | Last reviewed: March 5, 2026

Reviewed for clinical accuracy using an evidence-based, conservative care framework.

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Dr. Alex Tauberg, DC, RN, CCSP®, PSP

Primary Spine Practitioner & Certified Chiropractic Sports Practitioner

Founder of The Pittsburgh Chiropractor LLC, Dr. Tauberg is a dual-credentialed healthcare provider (Doctor of Chiropractic and Registered Nurse). He specializes in evidence-based spine care and sports medicine, leveraging his advanced training in spine care, rehabilitation, and sports medicine to help active individuals and athletes recover from musculoskeletal injuries and return to the activities they enjoy.

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Education & training

• Doctor of Chiropractic: National University of Health Sciences
• Primary Spine Practitioner Certification: University of Pittsburgh
• Nursing Education: Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC); Capella University
• Graduate Nursing: William Paterson University (FNP program)
• Undergraduate: Eckerd College (Psychology)

Certifications Primary Spine Practitioner (PSP) Certified Chiropractic Sports Practitioner (CCSP®) Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) Emergency Medical Responder (EMR)

Professional Affiliation Pennsylvania Chiropractic Association

Direct Clinical Line (412) 517-8124

Content Standards Evidence-based guidance, reviewed and updated regularly

Pittsburgh: 55 Alpha Drive West Suite 6, Pittsburgh, PA 15238 | Gibsonia: 5332 William Flynn Hwy, Gibsonia, PA 15044 Clinical Content Last Verified: March 5, 2026

Educational disclaimer: This content is for general informational purposes and does not replace individualized medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have severe symptoms, progressive weakness, fever, unexplained weight loss, recent trauma, or loss of bowel or bladder control, seek urgent evaluation.