Trigger points are spots in the muscle tissue where tightness and pain occur. These spots are quite literally “knots” that occur in the muscle and can be caused for a number of reasons. Those who have these trigger points often report sensitivity to the touch, pain in the area of the trigger point, and even pain outside of that area. They can occur at several places in the body, including the pectoral muscles in the chest.
Pectoral trigger points can become disruptive to everyday activities and daily tasks. They affect a large band of muscles in the chest that are involved in a variety of movements, including breathing, moving the arms, and lifting objects. As a person develops a trigger point in their pectoral muscle it may become necessary to seek treatment for their discomfort. Take a look through our resources and some of the information below to learn about trigger points and effective treatments for them.
What are the causes of pec trigger points?
If you’re unfamiliar with trigger points and what causes them, it may benefit you to read through the list of common causes below. Those listed are not the only causes of trigger points in the pecs, but rather just some of the most common ones. Learn more about trigger points below.
- Muscle overuse — It’s common to see trigger points in those who chronically overuse their muscles. For those with trigger points, it’s likely that repeatedly lifting heavy objects or performing repetitive exercises could be to blame.
- Bad sleeping positions — Poor sleeping positions can also lead to pec trigger points. Unsupportive sleeping positions can place strain on muscles in the chest and arms. The best way to lay during sleep is flat on your back while using supportive pillows under your head and knees.
- Muscle tension — Muscle tension is another common source of pec trigger points. When muscles become tense and tight, they form trigger points that can become uncomfortable and even painful.
- Poor posture — Poor posture is another common cause of trigger points located in the pecs. If you hunch over frequently or find yourself slouching often, this could be why.
What are the symptoms of pec trigger points?
Pec trigger points can present themselves in a number of ways. The symptoms are typically similar to general trigger point symptoms but originate from the pecs in the chest. Some symptoms of pec trigger points include pain in the chest, shoulder, arm, and even in the elbow. This condition can also create numb sensations throughout one side of the upper body, tightness in the chest, and a limited range of motion in the arms and chest.
How can physical therapy treatment benefit someone with pec trigger points?
Someone dealing with pec trigger points might benefit from physical therapy treatment. Physical therapy can be advantageous for a variety of patients with conditions that affect their everyday life for a number of different reasons. Take a look at the benefits of PT listed below and determine if you think PT treatment could be right for you.
- Reduce pain — Physical therapy treatment has the potential to reduce pain caused by trigger points in the pecs. They can guide you through intentional exercises that boost muscle strength and break up tension.
- Reduce inflammation — Physical therapy specialists are also effective at reducing inflammation. They use exercise, gentle movement, and instrument-assisted techniques to help with any inflammation that may be present. Minimizing some of the inflammation around the muscle can help relieve pain and reduce swelling.
- Improve chest tightness — Any tightness that builds up in the chest as a result of muscle tension can be relieved through guided movement during PT. A physical therapist knows how to target muscle groups that have become tense and difficult to move.
- Improve range of motion in the arms — Physical therapy can be used to improve the range of motion in the arms. For those with trigger points, body motion can be tedious and uncomfortable. Exercises targeted at improving range of motion can help patients regain mobility in areas they once struggled with.
- Prevent future trigger point flare-ups — Physical therapy can also be effective at preventing future trigger point flare-ups. A PT specialist can help you build muscle strength and flexibility and then teach you how to maintain that so you avoid trigger point issues in the future.
Ready to take the next step toward finding relief? Alliance PTP can be the one to guide you
At Alliance Physical Therapy Partners, we’re proudly bringing together physical therapy practices across the country to help people get the high-quality PT they need.
Want to see a physical therapist in person? We can put you in touch with an Alliance PTP partner that’s close to you and that can help you address the trigger point in your pectoral muscle.
Not keen on in-person PT sessions or not close to an Alliance PTP partner? No worries. We also offer effective and affordable virtual physical therapy through our Agile Virtual Physical Therapy platform.
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