Expert: Dr. Paul Newhart - 6/4/2008

Question
I experienced a reoccurrence of myofascial pain in my upper back, neck, and shoulder (left side) and just started getting treated by a chriopractor who uses activator methods. I have had the problem on and off for three years and wonder how long I should give this type of treatment.  I also have an opportunity to try cold laser therapy, which is supposed to help break through of some of the scar tissue.  My other question is:  Could both types of therapy be used in tandem? My experience is that if I overdo anything (massage, yoga...), my trigger points get more irritated.  The low-force pressure of the activator device seems fine.

Answer
The combination of low level laser and Activator would work wonderfully together.  We use the laser in our office, along with myofascial release, and have helped many.  It will temporarily inflame the trigger points, but the laser does a wonderful job of quieting them down.