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Stubborn TPs

Hello, first post . How do experienced bodywork folks deal with really stubborn TPs? I have a 53 yr. old woman who has mid-upper back and upper-mid glute TPs that literally feel like steak gristle. I've never felt anything this tough. Just solid. Most of her other issues have settled down, but these areas and she wants me to apply a lot of pressure, which I don't want to do. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

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Permalink Reply by Gordon J. Wallis on April 7, 2017 at 11:43pm

What you are describing, is not a trigger point. As to what it is, and what you can do about it( if anything)? I will leave that up to somebody else.

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Permalink Reply by Lisa McGillis on April 17, 2017 at 9:36am

Sounds more like scar tissue, but as for technique...?

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Permalink Reply by Gary W Addis, LMT on April 17, 2017 at 11:46pm

Could it be myositis ossificans? That's abnormal bone growth within muscle tissue. Rare, but it does occur.

Is there pain with the TPs you mention when palpated? Can you move the hard knot? Are you certain they aren't fatty cysts? Fatty cysts -- lipomas-- can be quite small and can be dense and hard. Does the upper glute TP sit on the ilium? the mid back TP might be sitting on a rib?

Al, I'm not questioning your expertise-- actually, i don't know anything about your experience and education. Just trying to narrow the possibilities.