Trigger point injections (TPIs) are used to treat painful areas of muscle that contain trigger points, or knots of muscle that form when muscles do not relax. These knots can cause localized pain and may refer pain to other areas of the body. TPIs are often recommended for patients with chronic muscle pain, including conditions like myofascial pain syndrome or tension headaches.
What Conditions Can Trigger Point Injections Help With?
Trigger point injections can help manage pain associated with:
Trigger point injections may relieve pain in the affected area and help muscles relax, reducing discomfort and improving your ability to perform daily activities.
Procedure Overview
The TPI procedure is minimally invasive, typically done in an outpatient setting, and usually takes only a few minutes. The goal is to alleviate pain and reduce muscle tightness in the affected area.
Steps of Administering a Trigger Point Injection
You’ll be positioned comfortably, either lying down or sitting, depending on the location of the trigger point. Your doctor will locate the specific muscle knots by feeling for areas of tightness or tenderness.
The skin over the trigger point is cleaned with an antiseptic solution. In most cases, a local anesthetic (like lidocaine) is included in the injection to numb the area and reduce discomfort.
A thin needle is inserted directly into the trigger point. The injected medication may be a local anesthetic, saline, or a combination of anesthetic and corticosteroid to reduce inflammation. The injection causes the trigger point to relax, and in some cases, a dry needling technique may be used (no medication) to achieve a similar effect. Some patients may experience an immediate relief sensation, often called the “twitch” response, as the muscle relaxes.
After the injection, you will be monitored for a short time to ensure you are comfortable and not experiencing any side effects. Most patients are able to resume their normal activities after a brief observation period.
When Can I Go Home?
Patients can usually go home shortly after the procedure, often within 10-15 minutes. You may experience mild soreness at the injection site for a day or two, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers or ice.
After the Procedure
Frequency of Injections
The number and frequency of trigger point injections depend on your response to treatment and the nature of your pain:
Most patients begin with one injection per affected area, and if needed, TPIs may be repeated every few weeks until sufficient relief is achieved.
Final Thoughts
Trigger point injections provide significant pain relief for many patients, especially those with chronic muscle pain due to conditions like myofascial pain syndrome. While TPIs may not permanently resolve all pain, they can provide lasting relief for weeks or months, particularly when combined with other treatments like physical therapy, stretching exercises, and relaxation techniques.
If you have any questions about your recovery or if you need further guidance after the procedure, please do not hesitate to contact our office.