Janet G. Travell

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Janet G. Travell (December 17, 1901 – August 1, 1997) was an American physician and medical researcher who made significant contributions to the field of myofascial pain syndrome and is best known for being the personal physician to President John F. Kennedy. Travell was a pioneer in the study of muscle pain and the development of trigger point therapy, which involves alleviating muscle pain through the application of pressure to specific points on the body.

Early Life and Education

Janet G. Travell was born in New York City. She was the daughter of John Willard Travell, a physician, and Janet Eliza Davidson. Travell followed in her father's footsteps, pursuing a career in medicine. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Wellesley College in 1922 and her medical degree from the Cornell University Medical College in 1926. After completing her medical degree, Travell undertook further training in cardiology and pharmacology, which laid the groundwork for her future research in muscle pain.

Career

Travell's early career was marked by her work in cardiology, but her focus shifted to the study of musculoskeletal pain and its treatment. In the 1940s, she began her pioneering work on myofascial pain syndrome, a condition that involves pain and inflammation in the body's soft tissues. Travell developed techniques for identifying and treating trigger points, small knots that form in muscles and cause pain when they are tight or irritated.

In 1955, Travell's expertise led her to treat then-Senator John F. Kennedy, who suffered from chronic back pain. Her successful treatment of Kennedy's pain, using her trigger point therapy, led to a close professional relationship, and in 1961, when Kennedy became President, Travell was appointed as the first woman to serve as the Personal Physician to the President.

Contributions to Medicine

Janet G. Travell's contributions to medicine extend beyond her treatment of President Kennedy. She co-authored the seminal book "Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction: The Trigger Point Manual" with David G. Simons. This work is considered a foundational text in the study and treatment of myofascial pain. Travell's research and clinical work have had a lasting impact on the fields of pain management and physical therapy.

Legacy

Janet G. Travell's legacy is marked by her pioneering research into myofascial pain and trigger point therapy. Her work has influenced generations of physicians, physical therapists, and other healthcare professionals. She received numerous awards and honors for her contributions to medicine, including the Distinguished Physician Award from the American Association of Rehabilitation Physicians.

Travell passed away on August 1, 1997, but her work continues to be a cornerstone in the treatment of chronic pain. Her methodologies and teachings remain integral to the field, and her influence is evident in the ongoing research and development of treatments for myofascial pain syndrome.

See Also

• Myofascial Pain Syndrome
• Trigger Point
• John F. Kennedy
• Physical Therapy