Trigger Point Treatment in Berlin Prenzlauer Berg – Releasing Muscle Knots with Dry Needling & Physiotherapy

Trigger points: that one spot that radiates

That hard, pressure-sensitive point in the neck. Press it and it pulls into the back of the head. Or the knot in the shoulder that radiates down the upper arm when you touch it. Sometimes people describe it as a "muscle knot" or "tension spot" – and sometimes an MRI or X-ray shows nothing, even though the pain is very real and persistent.

In many of these cases, so-called myofascial trigger points are involved: microscopically small zones of tension in the muscle tissue that can cause local or radiating pain. They do not show up on imaging, but they can be found and assessed through careful physical examination.

How trigger points can make themselves felt

• A localised pressure pain in the muscle – "when I press it, it shoots"
• A hard band, "knot" or lump in the neck, shoulder, back or buttocks
• Pain that radiates (e.g. neck → head or shoulder, buttocks → leg)
• A feeling of stiffness or restricted mobility
• Complaints after stress, prolonged sitting or one-sided strain
• After sport: the muscle "seizes up", always at the same spot
• Complaints that persist even though imaging was unremarkable

Common areas

Neck & Shoulder Often described as a "knot in the neck" – sometimes with accompanying tension headaches.

Shoulder Blade & Chest Tension between the shoulder blades, burning or tightness – frequently after prolonged sitting.

Back & Hip/Buttocks Deep, dull tension in the lower back or buttocks, sometimes sciatica-like with radiation.

Calf & Foot (especially in runners) Recurring tension in the calf or sole, often linked to load management.

How I can help

I work findings-oriented: understand first, then treat. Where is the pain, what triggers it, how long has it been there, what loads have been involved? After the anamnesis come palpation and a functional check – mobility, muscle tension, relevant chains and load-related patterns.

Depending on the findings, I can use targeted manual techniques – pressure and soft tissue work to regulate tension and ease movement. Dry Needling is a possible option for specific trigger points, but only when it suits your findings and you want it. Targeted exercises for strength, control and mobility complete the session, alongside practical guidance for daily life and sport.

My goal is that after the appointment you not only feel treated, but have a clear and realistic next step.

More on the treatment process: Treatment

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between trigger point treatment and dry needling?

Trigger point treatment is an umbrella term covering various methods – manual pressure techniques, movement and exercises. Dry needling is one possible option within that and is only used when it fits your findings and you want it.

Is the treatment painful?

A trigger point can be sensitive under pressure. It is important to me to work at an intensity that stays well tolerable for you.

How does it feel after the appointment?

Some people feel immediate relief, others experience something more like muscle soreness. This is individual. I will give you guidance on what makes sense in the first 24–48 hours: movement, load management, warmth if appropriate.

How many appointments will I need?

This is individual. Sometimes a few sessions plus an exercise plan are enough, sometimes follow-up is useful. I discuss this openly after the assessment.

Can I release trigger points myself?

Light self-treatment with a ball or foam roller can be helpful – but dosage and technique matter, to avoid over-irritating the area. I am happy to show you a simple, safe approach suited to your findings.

When should I seek medical assessment?

With warning signs such as accident or trauma, fever, numbness, significant loss of strength, bladder or bowel problems, or severe night-time resting pain, please see a doctor.