Understanding Trigger Points in Your Body
Trigger points are tight or restricted muscle areas which can be acutely tender and can cause pain to radiate to other parts of the body. Trigger points can develop due to:
- Injuries
- Prolonged muscle tension or over-exertion
- Poor posture
- Irritated nerve fibres
Trigger point injections can be used in the management of fibromyalgia, tension headaches and chronic myofascial pain syndromes.
Understanding the Injection Process
During the consultation, the pain consultant will identify your trigger points, these will be marked with a medical marker pen. The skin area is then cleaned and sterilised. Following this, an ultrasound probe is placed over the tender area to identify the different myofascial planes to identify the optimum position for the injection. Ultrasound is used to guide the needle to this position, on the monitor the injection can be visualised.
The injection contains a local anaesthetic which leads to instant pain relief, the consultant may add corticosteroids to the injections if required which can lead to a longer period of anti-inflammatory effect from the injection.
Things to Expect After Trigger Point Injections
Usually, patients will experience some instant relief from the local anaesthetic injections into their trigger points although for others it may take a few days to be fully effective. Sometimes, there can be some local swelling and inflammation at the injection. Anti-inflammatory medications, ice packs and heat packs can help to settle down post-injection inflammation.
Some patients may need to undertake stretching exercises after their injection to help relax tense muscles once pain relief has been achieved with a trigger point injection.
Common Q&A about Trigger Point Injection Therapy for Chronic Pain
Trigger Point Injection Therapy is a medical treatment used to relieve pain caused by trigger points, which are tight, painful areas of muscle that can cause discomfort and referred pain. The procedure involves injecting a local anesthetic, saline, or corticosteroid into the trigger point to relax the muscle and alleviate pain.
TPI is commonly used to treat chronic pain conditions such as myofascial pain syndrome, fibromyalgia, tension headaches, and pain in the neck, shoulders, lower back, and other muscle groups. It may also help with muscle pain associated with arthritis or sports injuries.
Trigger points are knots of muscle that cause pain and stiffness. The injection disrupts the pain signal and helps relax the muscle fibers, improving blood flow and reducing inflammation, which ultimately leads to pain relief and improved range of motion.
The injection typically contains a local anesthetic (such as lidocaine) to numb the area and, in some cases, a corticosteroid to reduce inflammation. Some practitioners may use saline or a combination of medications depending on the patient’s specific condition.
The procedure is quick, usually taking only a few minutes per injection site. Most patients feel a brief pinch or sting during the injection, but the anesthetic quickly numbs the area, reducing discomfort. Some soreness may occur afterward, similar to how a muscle feels after a workout.
Effectiveness varies depending on the individual and the underlying condition. Many patients experience immediate relief, while others may require a series of injections over time. TPI is often most effective when combined with physical therapy, stretching, and other treatments to manage chronic pain.
TPI is generally considered safe, but some patients may experience side effects such as temporary soreness, bruising, or bleeding at the injection site. In rare cases, infection, allergic reactions, or nerve damage may occur.
The number of injections required depends on the severity and duration of your pain, as well as how your body responds to treatment. Some patients may need only one injection, while others may benefit from a series of injections spaced over several weeks.
TPI may be recommended for patients who have chronic muscle pain that has not responded well to other treatments such as medication, physical therapy, or massage. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine if you’re a suitable candidate based on your medical history and symptoms.
Many insurance plans, including Medicare, may cover Trigger Point Injection Therapy if it’s deemed medically necessary. However, coverage varies by provider and plan, so it’s best to check with your insurance company for specific details about your coverage.