A muscle spasm is a protective mechanism designed to reduce movement and aid healing but can be painful. A muscle injury is called a strain the severity of which is graded 1 to 3. If the muscle is torn it is referred to as a rupture. Following an injury to a muscle there is often a Trigger Point (TP) or “myofascial trigger point”. This can last long after the injury itself has healed and can cause sensitivity in the muscle and pain referred to another part of the body.
 

A chiropractor can diagnose TPs through the history of injury and through manipulation of the muscle. Once diagnosed and the spasm released, the TPs can be treated. This is usually done through manual pressure which is a little uncomfortable until the point melts. Other treatments can include dry-needling with acupuncture needles or spray-stretch techniques using a cooling agent.