Introduction
Trigger point injections are a therapeutic option designed to alleviate intense pain in specific muscle areas. These painful spots, known as trigger points, are characterized by tight bands or small clusters within muscles that are highly sensitive to touch and pressure. They can irritate nearby nerves, leading to referred pain—discomfort that radiates to adjacent areas. Common causes of trigger points include traumatic injuries, overexertion, muscle tension, spasms, pinched nerves, and hormonal imbalances. Trigger point injections can be administered in various muscle groups, with the neck, back, and shoulders being particularly frequent targets.
Treatment
Trigger point injections are typically performed in your doctor's office and only take a few minutes. Depending on your condition, multiple treatments may be required. Before the procedure, your doctor may administer a nerve block or a local anesthetic to minimize discomfort.
During the injection, a fine needle is inserted into the trigger point, delivering a local anesthetic that provides pain relief and helps relax tight muscle spasms. Occasionally, a steroid medication may also be included in the injection to enhance its effectiveness. After the procedure, your doctor will give you specific instructions to manage any initial pain and swelling. Trigger point injections are often accompanied by physical therapy to further promote pain relief and improve muscle flexibility.
