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Latent Trigger Point - Glossary Term Illustration

Glossary Term

Latent Trigger Point

A latent trigger point is a type of myofascial trigger point that is not painful at rest but only when palpated. It may or may not exhibit a characteristic referral pain pattern when palpated and can result in an acute point of sensitivity, taut band of muscle, and restricted range of motion. Latent trigger points are more common than active trigger points and are often the intended target of soft-tissue mobility techniques.

Latent Trigger Point

Latent Trigger Point: A myofascial trigger point that is not painful at rest, only painful when palpated, and may or may not exhibit a characteristic referral pain pattern when palpated. Latent trigger points do result in an acute point of sensitivity, in a taut band of muscle, and may restrict range of motion (1). Note: Based on the clinical experience, the Brookbush Institute suggests that latent trigger points (sometimes refereed to as Tender Points) are more common than active trigger points. Further, they are likely addressed more often than trigger points; being the intended target of many soft-tissue mobility techniques.

  1. David G. Simons, Janet Travell, Lois S. Simons, Travell & Simmons’ Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction, The Trigger Point Manual, Volume 1. Upper Half of Body: Second Edition,© 1999 Williams and Wilkens

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