Myofascial Trigger Points are hyper-irritable spots that develop in connective tissue called fascia surrounding skeletal muscle tissue. They can often be felt as tender nodules or “knots” in tight bands of muscle fibers. Some common symptoms of trigger points are pain, muscle tension, weakness, and referred pain.  Trigger points can be caused by overuse, overstretch, and direct trauma to a muscle.  Trigger points can also develop from “holding patterns” that are created when a person is stressed and tenses up. This style of acupuncture is also referred to as dry needling.