Trigger points, while they do not have a definite set of characteristics, are generally thought of as sensitive areas in the muscle or connective tissue. Injury, overuse, facet joint irritation and number of other causes can be behind trigger points, which may occur in the neck, shoulders, and upper back, or in any muscle group.

Trigger points may be caused by “knots,” or nodules in what would otherwise be smooth muscle. Exercise that disrupts these nodules can be an important part of treatment for those with trigger points.

If you touch a point on your body, and pain spreads to different areas of the body, you should seek assistance from a pain management professional.