TREATMENT OF LATENT TRIGGER POINTS: A DRY NEEDLING APPROACH

Abstract

Trigger Points (TrPs) are hypersensitive nodules located inside taut bands of skeletal muscle fibers that are frequently associated with discomfort, stiffness, and decreased muscular function. Latent Trigger Points (LTrPs) are more common than active ones, particularly in asymptomatic persons, although they can still cause discomfort, limited movement, muscle fatigue, and weakening. LTrPs are usually produced by recurrent strain, chronic muscular tension, ischemia, or mechanical overload. Dry Needling (DN) is a popular and successful therapy approach for inactivating LTrP. It involves inserting a small, sterile needle into the affected muscle to elicit a local twitch response (LTR), which helps regulate muscle tone and relieve discomfort.