Behavioral HealthCASE REPORT

Abdominal Trigger Points and Psychological Function

Roy R. Reeves, DO, PhD, and Mark E. Ladner, MD
Notes and Affiliations
Notes and Affiliations

Accepted: October 19, 2015

Published: February 1, 2016

J Osteopath Med; 116(2): 114-117
Abstract

Myofascial trigger points (TPs) are a poorly understood phenomenon involving the myofascial system and its related neural, lymphatic, and circulatory elements. Compression or massage of a TP causes localized pain and may cause referred pain and autonomic phenomena. The authors describe a 58-year-old woman who experienced precipitation of substantial psychological symptoms directly related to her treatment for a lower abdominal TP. Her symptoms resolved after 2 weeks of receiving high-velocity, low-amplitude manipulation and soft tissue massage. Particularly in the abdomen, TPs may be associated with psychological reactions as well as physical aspects of bodily function.

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