Trigger Point Injections
Trigger point injections (TPI) are a treatment option for patients experiencing muscle pain. This procedure targets areas of muscle that have developed "knots" or trigger points, which occur when muscles don't relax. These knots can often be felt just under the skin and may cause pain in nearby nerves, leading to discomfort in other parts of the body.
What Happens During a Trigger Point Injection?
During a TPI procedure, a healthcare professional inserts a small needle into the trigger point. The injection usually contains a local anesthetic or saline, and sometimes a corticosteroid. This injection helps to deactivate the trigger point and relieve pain. Typically, a short series of treatments can provide lasting pain relief. The procedure is quick, taking only a few minutes, and is done in a doctor’s office. Multiple trigger points can be treated in a single visit. For those allergic to certain medications, a “dry-needle” technique, which uses no medications, can be an alternative.
When Are Trigger Point Injections Used?
TPI can treat pain in various muscle groups:
- Arms
- Legs
- Lower back
- Neck
TPI is useful for conditions like:
- Fibromyalgia
- Tension headaches
TPI may also help with myofascial pain syndrome:
- Chronic pain condition affecting the tissue around muscles
- Especially when other treatments haven’t worked
If you suffer from muscle pain and traditional treatments haven’t provided relief, consider discussing trigger point injections with your healthcare provider. They may offer a quick and effective solution to manage your pain and improve your quality of life.