Muscle knots, also known as trigger points, are areas within muscles that feel knotted or restricted. They can be tender to touch and may cause pain when pressed. There are two types: active trigger points, which occur in a contracted state, and latent trigger points, which occur in a non-contracted state. Symptoms include referred pain when an active trigger point is triggered. Treatment options include massage therapy, heat or cold therapy, stretching and exercise, and over-the-counter pain relievers for alleviating discomfort caused by muscle knots.