Trigger points are nodules in the soft tissue that can result from such causes as stress, injury, poor posture, poor nutrition, or food allergies. Trigger points cause pain and stiffness in the muscles as well as limit range of motion. Trigger point therapy involves the practitioner applying pressure from her fingers and thumbs directly on the trigger points. After releasing the pressure, the trigger point therapist will then flush the area with a variety of massage strokes. This process helps remove toxins released into the area and helps prevent the return of a trigger point.

To learn trigger point therapy, a massage therapist can enroll in workshop courses, continuing education classes, or complete programs focusing on specific types of trigger point therapy. If you decide to study to become a trigger point therapist, you can expect to learn about active and latent trigger points, how to correctly manipulate trigger points, how trigger points affect each other, various techniques for eliminating trigger points, and follow-up measures to a trigger point therapy session. If you complete an accredited program, you may be eligible to sit for certification with national certification boards.

A trigger point therapist typically does not rely solely on this type of therapy for their career. Most trigger point therapists are also established massage therapists. Trigger point therapists can work at many of the same places massage therapists work including spas and salons, but can also be found at places that specifically focus on pain relief such as chiropractor’s offices, clinics, hospitals, and rehabilitation clinics. The job prospects for that which a trigger point therapist can provide. With faster-than-average growth expected in the fields of both massage therapy and alternative healing therapies, a qualified massage therapist with the additional skills of a trigger point therapist can expect to have a bright outlook for their career.

Top Massage Therapy Programs

	U.S. Career Institute - At the U.S. Career Institute, students will be taught alternative health treatments to assist people in feeling better. With a number of organizations hiring in various positions, don't pass up this opportunity to go back to school and start a great career.
	Boca Beauty Academy of Massage - If you're interested in becoming a massage therapist, Boca Beauty Academy of Massage offers a fantastic program for students interested in this growing industry.
Cincinnati Cleveland	Center for Massage & Natural Health - The Center for Massage & Natural Health assists students in reaching their goal of becoming a massage therapist affordably and conveniently.
Boston Tampa Scottsdale	Cortiva Institute for Massage - Cortiva Institute for Massage prepares aspiring massage therapists with a rigorous program in the field of massage therapy. With locations available across the country, students can get prepared quickly.