Muscle knots, also known as myofascial trigger points, are common. They refer to sensitive, hardened areas within a muscle that can cause discomfort. These spots are essentially small, contracted bands of muscle fibers that remain tightened even when the muscle is at rest. While the term “knot” suggests a physical tangle, it’s more accurately described as a localized spasm or an area where muscle fibers are stuck between contraction and relaxation, leading to reduced blood flow and oxygenation.
Identifying Muscle Knots by Touch and Sight
Identifying muscle knots primarily involves tactile examination, as they are often felt rather than seen. When touched, a muscle knot typically feels like a small, tender lump or nodule under the skin, ranging from the size of a pea to a golf ball. The affected area may feel swollen, tense, or bumpy, and is often sensitive or painful to the touch, feeling tighter and harder than surrounding tissue. Some knots are superficial and easily felt, while others are deeper, requiring firmer pressure to detect.
Visual identification is less common, as knots do not typically cause bruising or discoloration. Subtle visual cues can include a slight bulge, tautness, or, rarely, a visible twitching of muscle fibers. Muscle knots can develop anywhere muscles or fascia (connective tissue) are present. They frequently occur in areas prone to tension and repetitive movement, such as the neck, shoulders, upper back, lower back, glutes, and calves.
Common Signs of Muscle Knots
Beyond their physical feel, muscle knots present common symptoms. Pain is a primary characteristic, often described as a localized ache or sharp pain when pressure is applied. This pain can be constant, even at rest (active trigger points), or only painful when touched (latent trigger points). A notable feature is “referred pain,” where pain radiates from the knot to other seemingly unrelated areas. For instance, a shoulder knot might cause pain down the arm or lead to tension headaches.
Muscle knots frequently lead to restricted movement in the affected joint or muscle. This limitation occurs because tightened muscle fibers prevent full lengthening or contracting. Individuals often experience stiffness and tightness, especially after periods of rest, such as in the morning. The affected muscle might also feel weaker or tire more easily. Less common, but possible, symptoms include tingling, numbness, or burning sensations, particularly if the knot is near nerve pathways.
When to Seek Professional Guidance
While many muscle knots can be managed with self-care, there are specific situations when seeking professional guidance is advisable. If the pain from a muscle knot persists despite home remedies or worsens over time, it suggests a need for professional evaluation. Similarly, if the knot significantly limits daily activities or causes severe discomfort that interferes with well-being, consulting a healthcare provider is recommended.
Other concerning symptoms that warrant professional attention include the development of fever, unexplained weight loss, or numbness and tingling that spreads or becomes more intense. These additional symptoms could indicate an underlying condition more serious than a typical muscle knot. If there is uncertainty about whether what is being experienced is indeed a muscle knot or something else, such as a swollen lymph node or a muscle tear, a doctor, physical therapist, or osteopath can provide an accurate diagnosis. They can rule out other conditions and suggest appropriate treatment.