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Learn about myofascial trigger points and massage therapy techniques for working with clients experiencing trigger point symptoms. This 1-hour continuing education course introduces massage therapists to trigger point types, signs and symptoms, contributing factors, contraindications, and assessment strategies.
The course also covers massage techniques and strategies used when working with trigger points, including approaches for deactivating trigger points. Client stretching and strengthening strategies are also discussed.
In this course, you will learn:
What myofascial trigger points are
Common signs and symptoms of trigger points
Different types of trigger points
Contributing factors associated with trigger points
Contraindications and special considerations
Client assessment questions and range-of-motion testing
Massage techniques and strategies for trigger points
Approaches used to deactivate trigger points
Client stretching and strengthening strategies
Why take this course?
Myofascial trigger points are a common topic in massage therapy, and understanding their characteristics, assessment, and appropriate massage techniques can help therapists make more informed decisions when working with clients.
This focused 1-hour course provides practical information on trigger points, including assessment, safety considerations, massage techniques, and approaches for deactivation. It is a convenient choice for massage therapists who want to strengthen their knowledge of trigger point therapy.
Define a myofascial trigger point and describe common characteristics.
Identify different types of trigger points.
Describe common signs, symptoms, and contributing factors.
Identify contraindications and special considerations related to trigger points.
Describe client assessment questions and range-of-motion testing.
Identify massage techniques and strategies used when working with trigger points.
Describe approaches used to deactivate trigger points.
Identify stretching and strengthening strategies that may be appropriate for client self-care.
Text: Myofascial Trigger Points, an excerpt from Condition-Specific Massage by Celia Bucci, 27 pages
Course guide with instructions
9-question multiple-choice examination
Course evaluation
Certificate of achievement upon completion
Unlimited phone and email support for any questions
The Center for Massage Therapy Continuing Education, LLC is an Approved Provider through the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB); Approved Provider number 409296-00.
Our massage online continuing education courses are also accepted by the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA), Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals (ABMP), and most state boards.
For more information on individual state requirements and approvals, please visit our Approvals page and click on your state.
Lots of details, good applications, very clear. - Marilyn M.
I liked the body and stretching techniques presented. - Gina R.
Helped me to understand and treat clients with trigger points in a better manner! - Robert J.
What is a myofascial trigger point?
a. A spot in a joint capsule that shows evidence of an excessive, prolonged response to stimuli
b. A spot in skeletal tissue that shows evidence of an excessive, prolonged response to stimuli
c. A spot in a skeletal muscle that shows evidence of an acute injury in response to an injury
d. A spot in a skeletal muscle that shows evidence of an excessive, prolonged response to stimuli
All of the following are methods for treating trigger points EXCEPT:
a. Vapocoolant spray
b. Moist heat
c. Shortening
d. Muscle energy techniques
When palpating a taut band for a trigger point, which of the following is a good general rule?
a. Take 6 seconds to palpate 1 inch of muscle
b. Take 4 seconds to palpate 1 inch of muscle
c. Take 3 seconds to palpate 1 inch of muscle
d. Take 2 seconds to palpate 1 inch of muscle
Course Author
About the Instructor
Celia Bucci, LMT
Celia graduated from the Soma Institute for Clinical Massage Therapy in 2002. Her continuing education has focused on learning what contributes to common pain complaints, methods for reducing pain and improving movement, and the research supporting both. She’s taught in entry-level massage therapy schools and continuing education programs. She wrote Condition Specific Massage Therapy for massage therapists interested in learning to apply basic techniques to address the specific symptoms of conditions such as headaches, neck, shoulder, low back, hip and knee pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, plantar fasciitis, sprains, muscle strain and tendinitis. The book is used in Massage Therapy schools across the country and is available in Japanese and Korean. Celia has received the 2010 AMTA-IL Distinguished Service Award and the 2012 AMTA-IL Meritorious Award.
