Most people will experience painful muscle knots at one time or another. As you get older, you might notice yourself developing these muscle knots that bring about so much pain. They can pop out seemingly overnight and stay there for days.

Also Known As Myofascial Pain

These knots are also called myofascial pain. They can also be called trigger points. When the muscle group or tissues get overused or become overly excited, it leads to tightness. This happens when you use that same muscle group repetitively. People who have poor posture might also suffer from muscle knots more often. Those who spend so much time sitting down as well as those who exert too much force can become more susceptible to muscle knots.

The problem with muscle knots is that the pain is often not just centered on that particular area. Sometimes, it can radiate to the surrounding muscles as well so you might not know where to look for it.

Prevention Tips

One way to prevent muscle knots from forming is to avoid doing the same things repetitively. Make sure you also stretch and exercise. Stretching warms up the muscles, thereby preventing knots from forming. At work, it also helps to use ergonomic equipment such as tables and chairs to prevent muscle strain.

You might also want to invest in more comfortable mattresses and pillows. Tight knots also appear after a night of sleep on a lumpy mattress.

What Can You Do to Treat Muscle Knots?

If the muscle knots feel sore, it helps to put ice on it. Put ice on it the same way you would put ice when you have a sprain. Just apply it for at least 20 minutes every hour. If there is no soreness but you just feel pain in that spot, you can apply a hot compress. This will loosen up the tight muscles.

Soaking in a warm bath is also helpful. You can put Epsom salt in your bath water. Epsom salt is known for its benefit in relaxing muscles and relieving muscle pain. Studies also say that it can help people suffering from migraines.

Massage therapy in North Vancouver is another treatment you might want to try to loosen up those tight muscles. Once a week of massage therapy in North Vancouver from clinics like Avita Health & Massage Therapy Center can help keep those muscle knots at bay.