What is a Trigger Point Injection?
A trigger point injection is a procedure used to relieve pain in specific areas of muscle that have developed “knots” or tight bands, known as trigger points. These trigger points can irritate surrounding nerves, leading to pain that may be felt not just in the muscle itself but in other areas of the body as well.
During the procedure, a small amount of medication—typically a local anesthetic, with or without a corticosteroid—is injected directly into the trigger point. The injection helps to relax the muscle, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain. In some cases, dry needling (using just the needle without medication) can also be effective.
Conditions Treated with Trigger Point Injections:
- Myofascial Pain Syndrome: This chronic pain condition involves trigger points in muscles, leading to pain in specific areas or referred pain.
- Fibromyalgia: Trigger points can exacerbate the widespread pain associated with fibromyalgia.
- Tension Headaches: Tight muscles in the neck and shoulders can cause tension headaches, and trigger point injections can provide relief.
- Chronic Muscle Pain: Conditions involving persistent muscle pain, such as those from overuse or repetitive strain, can be treated with trigger point injections.
- Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Pain: Trigger points in the jaw muscles can contribute to TMJ pain, and injections can help relax these muscles.
- Neck and Back Pain: Trigger points in the muscles surrounding the spine can lead to localized or referred pain in the neck and back.
- Post-Injury Muscle Pain: After an injury, tight muscles can develop trigger points that perpetuate pain even after the injury heals.
How is a Trigger Point Injection Done?
- Preparation:
- You will be asked to sit or lie down in a comfortable position, depending on the location of the trigger point.
- The area to be treated is cleaned with an antiseptic to reduce the risk of infection.
- Locating the Trigger Point:
- The doctor will palpate (press) the muscle to locate the exact spot of the trigger point, which typically feels like a tight knot or band within the muscle. The docotor may also use an ultrasound to identify the trigger point and use ultrasound guidance to direct the needle into the trigger point.
- Injection:
- A thin needle is inserted directly into the trigger point.The doctor will inject a small amount of medication, which could be a local anesthetic (like lidocaine) to numb the area, and sometimes a corticosteroid to reduce inflammation.
- Manipulation:
- The needle may be moved in and out of the muscle to help break up the tight muscle fibers and reduce tension.
- Post-Injection Care:
- After the injection, the doctor will apply pressure to the site and may massage the area to help relax the muscle.
- You may be observed for a short time to ensure there are no immediate side effects.
- The area may feel sore for a few hours or days, and applying ice or doing gentle stretches may be recommended.
Summary:
Trigger point injection is a procedure used to relieve pain in specific areas of muscle that have developed “knots” and are painful with touch or movement. Injection involves direct injection into the muscle that is the source of pain. Trigger point injections are generally well-tolerated, and most patients experience significant relief from pain shortly after the procedure. Depending on the severity of the condition, multiple injections may be necessary over time.