Unknown 244 • JAOA • Vol 104 • No 6 • June 2004 The proposed etiology of Travell trigger points (TrPs) has undergone a fundamental revision in recent years. New research results suggest that TrPs are evoked by the abnormal depolarization of motor end plates. This article expands the proposed etiology to include presynaptic, synaptic, and postsynaptic mechanisms of abnormal depo- larization (ie, excessive release of acetycholine [ACh], defects of acetylcholinesterase, and upregulation of nico- tinic ACh-receptor activity, respectively). This working hypothesis regarding the etiology of TrPs has changed the approach to treating TrPs. As an example, Travell and Simons abandoned the application of ischemic compression to TrPs; instead the authors adopted several techniques associated with osteopathic medicine (ie, muscle-energy, myofascial, counterstrain; high-velocity, low-amplitude). Scientists are now proposing and reporting the results of new approaches using cap- saicin, a vanilloid-receptor agonist, and ACh antagonists (eg, dimethisoquin hydrochloride, botulinum toxin, quini- dine, linalool). The purpose of this article is to review these new concepts and describe new resulting approaches to the treatment of TrPs. Janet G. Travell, MD, (1901–1997) was an internist in gen-eral medicine who developed an interest in spinal manip- ulation in the 1940s,1 but later shifted her focus to myofascial trigger points (TrPs). In 1955, she relieved then–Senator John F. Kennedy of disabling back pain (after he endured a failed diskectomy in 1944 and laminectomy in 1954).2 Travell’s ensuing post as White House physician, followed by the publication of her two-volume “Red Bible,” Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction: The Trigger Point Manual,3,4 coauthored with David G. Simons, MD, brought prominence to her approach for treating TrPs. Travell defined a TrP as “a hyperirritable spot in skeletal muscle that is associated with a hypersensitive palpable nodule in a taut band. The spot is tender when pressed and can give rise to characteristic referred pain, motor dysfunc- tion, and autonomic phenomena.”5 An example of this is shown in Figure 1. The taut band of muscle is best charac- terized as a palpable, ropy structure. Palpation is a reliable diagnostic criterion for locating TrPs in patients.6 The reliability of diagnosing TrPs is similar to the reliability of diagnosing tender points in the counter- strain system developed by Lawrence H. Jones, DO.7 An interrater-reliability study of this counterstrain system demon- strated that clinicians agreed 73% of the time (� = 0.45); the palpation of patients’ TrPs proved more reliable than the standard osteopathic TART examination.7 (TART is a mnemonic for the four criteria of somatic dysfunction: tissue texture abnormality, asymmetry, restriction of motion, and tenderness.7) Myofascial trigger points can be inactivated by a variety of approaches, including osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT), massage therapy, ultrasound therapy, “spray and stretch,” as well as needling (acupuncture or injection). A full account that describes the diagnosis and treatment of Travell TrPs is provided by Kuchera and McPartland in Foundations for Osteopathic Medicine.8 This article serves as a companion piece to Kuchera and McPartland’s chapter in Foundations, describing a new working hypothesis regarding the etiology of TrPs and the way in which this new hypoth- esis changes our treatment of these points. Most of the mate- rial in this article was mistakenly deleted from the final ver- sion of the Foundations chapter. Proposed Etiology of TrPs The 1999 edition of Travell and Simons’ Myofascial Pain and Dys- function: The Trigger Point Manual5 proposes an “integrated hypothesis” regarding the etiology of TrPs. Such an integrated hypothesis involves local myofascial tissues, the central nervous system (CNS), and biomechanical factors. A biopsy of local myofascial tissue in the vicinity of TrPs revealed that the tissues contained “contraction knots,” described as “large, rounded, darkly staining muscle fibers and a statistically significant increase in the average diameter of muscle fibers.”9 Electromyographic (EMG) studies of TrPs have indicated spontaneous electrical activity (SEA) in TrPs, while adjacent muscle tissues are electrically silent.10 These intersecting discoveries led Travell and Simons to implicate dysfunctional motor end plates as the underlying etiology of TrPs. The terms motor end plates and neuromuscular junction From Unitec Institute of Technology in Auckland, New Zealand. Address correspondence to John M. McPartland, DO, MS, Faculty of Health & Environmental Science, Unitec Institute of Technology, Private Bag 92025, Auckland, New Zealand. E-mail: jmcpartland@unitec.ac.nz REVIEW ARTICLE McPartland • Review Article Travell Trigger Points—Molecular and Osteopathic Perspectives John M. McPartland, DO, MS JAOA • Vol 104 • No 6 • June 2004 • 245 REVIEW ARTICLE McPartland • Review Article Acquired Defects Many ion channels and neuroreceptors are expressed by more than one gene. These genetic subtypes are expressed in cells in different parts of the body for different needs and at different points in the life cycle. Dysregulated expression of these genes will produce acquired defects. To illustrate this mechanism, consider the 16 genes that encode nAChR subunits. The gene that encodes a CNS nAChR may become dysregulated in a muscle cell and may begin producing CNS nAChRs in the motor end plate. Couple this dysfunction with tobacco smoking. Nicotine normally activates CNS AChRs and not motor end plate AchRs. If dysregulated, however, CNS nAChRs become expressed in motor end plates. Nicotine would then activate those receptors in motor end plates, poten- tially causing TrPs. Single genes may also become dysregulated should they express splice variants. Splice variants are alternative ways in which a gene’s protein-coding sections (exons) are joined together to create a messenger ribonucleic acid molecule and its translated protein. For example, AChE expresses several sub- types that are produced by alternative splicing of the single AChE gene.17 These subtypes are induced under psycholog- ical, chemical, and physical stress.18 The simple upregulation of certain genes may lead to muscle hyperexcitability and evoke TrPs in muscles. For example, L-type and N-type Ca2� channels are upregulated by factors associated with physical and psychological stress,19,20 as well as by nicotine.21 Patients with TrPs and long-term mus- culoskeletal pain should avoid tobacco smoking, as well as excess caffeine.22 Caffeine upregulates activity at motor end plates by acting as an agonist of ryanodine receptors23 and an antagonist of adenosine A2A receptors.24 Motor End Plate Dysfunction Cascade When a motor end plate becomes dysfunctional, several per- verse mechanisms cause it to persist as a TrP. The excessive muscle contraction compresses local sensory nerves, which reduces the axoplasmic transport of molecules that normally inhibit ACh release.25,26 The sustained muscle contraction also compresses local blood vessels, reducing the local supply of oxygen. This impaired circulation, combined with the increased metabolic demands generated by contracted muscles, results in a rapid depletion of local adenosine triphosphate (ATP). The resultant “ATP energy crisis”5 triggers presynaptic and postsynaptic decompensations. In the nerve terminal, ATP directly inhibits ACh release,27 so depletion of ATP increases ACh release. In the muscle cell, ATP powers the Ca2� pump, which returns calcium to the sarcoplasmic reticulum. Hence, loss of ATP impairs the reuptake of Ca2�, which increases contractile activity—a vicious cycle.9 The ATP energy crisis cascades into a local release of chemicals that activate or sensitize nociceptive nerves in the region, including bradykinins, cytokines, serotonin, histamine, potassium, prostaglandins, leukotrienes, somatostatin, and are interchangeable, although the first term describes structure and the latter reflects function. Both terms refer to the point where �-motor neurons contact their target muscle fibers. (See Figure 2 for a schematic drawing of a motor end plate.) The cor- relation between motor end plates and TrPs (“myalgic spots”) was first elucidated in a study conducted by Gunn and Mil- brandt in 1977.11 Travell and Simons attributed motor end plate dysfunc- tion to an excessive release of acetylcholine (ACh) from the presynaptic motor nerve terminal.5,9 Acetylcholine released into the synaptic cleft rapidly activates nicotinic ACh receptors (nAChRs) on the postsynaptic muscle membrane, leading to a muscle action potential and muscle contraction (Figure 2). Travell and Simons’ hypothesis of a presynaptic dysfunction, however, is only one way to interpret the results of EMG studies. As the EMG electrodes are placed in postsynaptic muscle fibers, the increased SEA measured in TrPs could be attributed to the result of presynaptic, synaptic, or postsy- naptic dysfunction.5 All of these dysfunctions can be inherited (genetic) or acquired. Genetic Defects Gene mutations frequently arise as nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs, pronounced “snips”) and microsatellite polymorphisms. Single nucleotide polymorphisms are common deoxyribonu- cleic acid (DNA) variations among individuals, caused by a single-point mutation. Microsatellite polymorphisms are mutated DNA loci that contain nucleotide repeats. Pellegrino et al12 implicated genetic factors in the formation of TrPs. Genetic defects of motor end plates can be presynaptic, synaptic, or postsynaptic.13 Presynaptically, the release of ACh depends on the calcium ion (Ca2�) concentration in the �- motor nerve terminal. Excessive release of ACh may be caused by defects of L-type and N-type voltage-gated Ca2� chan- nels.14 An Internet search of the SNP catalog maintained by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (available at: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov) reveals 695 reports of L-type Ca2� channel mutations and 57 reports of N-type Ca2� channel mutations. Thus, a genetic cause for excess ACh release may be quite common. Synaptically, ACh is normally inactivated by the enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE) (Figure 2). Genetic defects of AChE may cause excess ACh to remain in the synaptic cleft.13 Postsynaptically, a gain-of-function defect of nAChR may confer muscle hyperexcitability, a hallmark of Travell TrPs. The nAChR is an assembly of 5 subunits; at least 16 genes encode nAChR subunits that combine in a variety of ways.15 Thus, nAChR is particularly susceptible to mutation defects. The nAChR in the motor end plate expresses different subunits than nAChR expressed in the CNS or in the autonomic nerves. Gain-of-function mutations result in the overexpression of nAChRs in the muscle cell membrane, as well as resulting in nAChRs that are hypersenstive to ACh. These mutations also result in nAChRs that become constitutively active.16 246 • JAOA • Vol 104 • No 6 • June 2004 REVIEW ARTICLE McPartland • Review Article substance P.9 This chemical activation and sensitization of nociceptors accounts for TrP tenderness. Sensitizing substances may also generate a focal demyelination of sensory nerves. Demyelination creates abnormal impulse–generating sites (AIGS) capable of generating ectopic nociceptive impulses.28 CNS and Biomechanical Factors The CNS and biomechanical factors also contribute to the for- mation and maintenance of TrPs. A persistent barrage of noci- ceptive signals from TrPs will eventually sensitize the CNS, a process termed central sensitization. This process accelerates in the presence of AIGS and their associated ephaptic crosstalk (cross-excitation) with neighboring autonomic nerves. Travell and Simons’ view of the CNS as an “integrator” of TrPs is interchangeable with Korr’s description29 of the CNS as an “organizer” of somatic dysfunction. According to Travell and Simons, the sensitized dorsal horn becomes a “neurologic lens,” consolidating other nociceptive signals converging on the same segment of the spinal cord, including other somatic dys- functions and visceral dysfunctions.5 Biomechanical factors that stress muscles (eg, acute trauma, repetitive microtrauma) contribute to TrP dysfunc- tion. Further, biomechanical stress of a cold muscle is a key factor in the formation of TrPs,3-5 as cooling muscles apparently upregulate nAChR activity at the motor end plates.30 The revised edition of Travell and Simons’ manual emphasizes the relationship between TrPs and nearby articular dysfunc- tions. In the manual, the authors correlate suboccipital TrPs with occipitoatlantal (OA) dysfunctions, semispinalis capitus TrPs with OA dysfunctions and atlantoaxial dysfunctions, and splenius TrPs with upper thoracic articular dysfunctions.5 Postural disorders often contribute to the perpetuation of TrPs. For example, postural strain of the suboccipital mus- cles may cause TrPs in these muscles,5 leading to further dete- rioration in muscle structure and function. Such deterioration may result in radiating pain (Figure 1) and atrophic changes.31 Suboccipital muscles contain a high density of propriocep- tors,32 so atrophic changes lead to a loss in proprioceptive bal- ance and loss of proprioceptive “gate control” at the dorsal horn, giving rise to chronic pain syndromes.31 Considerations for Osteopathic Medicine Twenty years ago, Travell and Simons treated TrPs with “ischemic compression” by applying heavy thumb pressure on TrPs, sufficient to produce skin blanching.3 In the 1999 edition, Travell and Simons recommend applying gentle digital pres- sure to TrPs.5 This fundamental change is anchored in Travell’s ATP energy crisis model, which characterizes TrPs as centers of tissue hypoxia. Thus, deep digital pressure that produces additional ischemia is not beneficial. Travell and Simons named their new technique “trigger point pressure release.”5 Applying a “press and stretch” technique is believed to restore abnor- mally contracted sarcomeres in the contraction knot to their normal resting length. It is an indirect technique that uses the barrier-release concept, in which the finger “follows” the releasing tissue. During the past 20 years, Travell and Simons developed an appreciation for OMT, though they learned of it from Euro- pean allopathic physicians. The authors began treating TrPs with a muscle-energy technique they called the “Lewit tech- nique.”3 Karl Lewit, MD, from the Czech Republic, developed his technique after working with Fred L. Mitchell, Jr, DO, Philip E. Greenman, DO, and other osteopathic physicians.33 A Dutch variation of Lewit’s method, the “Gaymans-Lewit technique,” evolved after Gaymans met osteopathic physi- cians in New York City in the early 1970s.34 Travell and Simons subsequently cited Mitchell and Greenman and described muscle energy and myofascial release.4 Travell and Simons’ revised edition of their manual advo- cates muscle energy, counterstrain, myofascial release, and Figure 1. Trigger point of the left rectus capitis posterior major (marked by an X) and its referred pain pattern (stip- pling). (Adapted in part from Travell et al.3) JAOA • Vol 104 • No 6 • June 2004 • 247 REVIEW ARTICLE McPartland • Review Article Other New Approaches for Treating TrPs Travell and Simons recommend dimethisoquin hydrochlo- ride ointment (Quotane) for massaging TrPs in superficial muscles such as the orbicularis oculi, frontalis, and occipi- talis.3 Dimethisoquin, a local anesthetic, inhibits voltage-gated Na(�) channels (conferring its anesthetic effect) but also acts as a noncompetitive inhibitor of nAChRs (IC50 = 2.4 �M).35 The anesthetic’s potency is significantly greater than that of lido- caine (IC50 = 52 �M) and procaine (IC50 = 240 �M). Further, dimethisoquine is uniquely selective for the nAChR subtype expressed in the neuromuscular junction. Massage with capsaicin cream (0.075%, available over the counter) is useful for treating TrPs located in surgical scars,36 which are particularly refractory to treatment.5 Cap- saicin selectively binds to the vanilloid receptor (VR1).37 Vanil- loid-receptor activation triggers an influx of Ca2� into neuron terminals, which initiates neurotransmitter release. Repeated exposure to capsaicin, however, causes VR1s to become desen- sitized. This mechanism explains the seemingly paradoxical use of capsaicin as an analgesic.36-38 Vanilloid receptors are also expressed in brain regions that modulate the emotive and cognitive aspects of pain (eg, preoptic area, locus ceruleus, hypothalamus, striatum).38 It has been hypothesized that mod- ulating the expression of VR1s and their endogenous ligand (anandamide) may be one of the central mechanisms of OMT,38 parallel to the potential effects of OMT on endorphins.39 Needling is sometimes necessary to inactivate TrPs. For thousands of years, Chinese medicine has treated TrPs with acupuncture.40 Travell began needling TrPs with syringes in 1942, injecting them with procaine.41 Procaine was later replaced by saline solution,42 which was later replaced by “dry needling”—without any fluid in the syringe43—bringing the procedure full circle to what is essentially acupuncture. The “dysfunctional motor end plate hypothesis” has led to the injection of botulinum toxin, which causes an irreversible blockade of ACh release in the TrP.44 Injecting TrPs with quinidine should be tested in a clinical trial, as quinidine decreases presynaptic ACh release (via its well-known blockade of L-type Ca2� channels) and down- regulates nAChRs (a postsynaptic mechanism). In one trial, quinidine appeared to restore AChE activity.45 Diltiazem also merits investigation. It is an L-type Ca2� channel blocking agent that corrects myopathies caused by defects in AChE activity.46 Travell and Simons recommended a diet adequate in vitamins and minerals for the prevention of TrPs.3 Supple- menting the diet with phosphatidylcholine has been recom- mended,47 but this may actually provoke TrPs in a portion of patients. As choline is a percursor to ACh, an nAChR gain-of- function mutation may enable choline to directly activate the mutated receptors.48 Another new approach in treating TrPs are herbal med- ications. As an estimated 50% of patients with long-term mus- culoskeletal pain take herbal remedies, it behooves osteopathic other OMT techniques for treating TrPs and associated artic- ular somatic dysfunctions.5 In addition, high-velocity, low- amplitude thrust techniques are illustrated, hearkening back to Travell’s early interest in spinal manipulation.1 Figure 2. The motor end plate—proposed site of trigger point dys- function. Top illustration: The junction between the �-motor neuron and the muscle fiber. The �-motor neuron terminates in multiple swellings termed synaptic boutons. Bottom illustration: presynaptic boutons are separated from the postsynaptic muscle cell by the synaptic cleft. Within each bouton are many synaptic vesicles containing ACh, clus- tered around dense bars (Db). The Db is the site of ACh release into the synapse. Across the synapse from the Db, the postsynaptic muscle cell membrane forms junctional folds that are lined with nicotinic ACh receptors (nACh). ACh released into the synapse activates nACh receptors, then is inactivated by the acetylcholinesterase enzyme (AChE). (Adapted in part from Kandel et al.58) 248 • JAOA • Vol 104 • No 6 • June 2004 REVIEW ARTICLE physicians to understand the mechanisms of these medica- tions.49 Herbal remedies and essential oils that are recom- mended for treating myofascial pain include lavender (Lavan- dula angustifolia), lemon balm (Melissa officinalis), rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis), kava kava (Piper methysticum), skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora), passionflower (Passiflora incarnata), Rose (Rosa spp), and valerian (Valeriana officinalis).47 Nearly all of these herbs contain linalool, a monoterpene compound that inhibits end plate activity by reducing ACh release (a presy- naptic mechanism) and by modifing nAChRs (a postsynaptic mechanism).50 Marijuana (Cannabis spp), which also produces linalool,51 also effectively treats myofascial pain syndromes.52 Marijuana’s efficacy may also be attributed to tetrahydro- cannabinol, an N-type Ca2� channel blocker.53 Tetrahydro- cannabinol inhibits ACh release in the CNS54; this inhibition is thought to occur at motor end plates, as motor nerve terminals express cannabinoid receptors.54 Conclusion Travell and Simons’concepts regarding TrPs have converged with osteopathic medicine’s concept of somatic dysfunction. This convergence is also seen in Travell and Simons’ approach to the treatment of TrPs, which in many ways resembles the OMT used in Chapman reflex points,55 Jones’ counterstrain points,56 and the progressive inhibition of neuromuscular structures (PINS) technique.57 Armed with a better under- standing of the molecular basis underlying myofascial pain syn- dromes, clinicians hope that Travell and Simons’ approach will continue to coevolve with osteopathic concepts. References 1. Travell W, Travell JG. Technic for reduction and ambulatory treatment of sacroiliac displacement. Arch Phys Ther. 1942;23:222-232. 2. Travell JG. Office Hours: Day and Night; The Autobiography of Janet Travell, MD. New York, NY: World Publishing Co; 1968. 3. Travell JG, Simons DG. Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction: The Trigger Point Manual: The Upper Extremities. Vol. 1. Baltimore, Md: Williams & Wilkins; 1983. 4. Travell JG, Simons DG. 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