OVERVIEW OF TRIGGER POINT INJECTION
BRIEF SUMMARY OF WHAT TO EXPECT
Trigger point injections are used to treat painful areas of muscle that contain trigger points, or knots of muscle that form when muscles do not relax. This procedure involves injecting a local anesthetic and sometimes a corticosteroid directly into the trigger point to alleviate pain and improve mobility.
Trigger point injections are used to treat a number of conditions such as:
This chronic pain disorder affects the connective tissue (fascia) surrounding muscles and can cause widespread pain.
Trigger points in the neck and shoulder muscles can contribute to tension headaches.
Patients with fibromyalgia often have trigger points that can be targeted for pain relief.
Persistent muscle pain that does not respond to other treatments can be managed with trigger point injections.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR:
Determining whether you need this service can depend on several symptoms, including:
- Knots or tight bands of muscle causing pain
- Pain that radiates from a trigger point to other areas
- Chronic muscle pain unresponsive to other treatments
- Decreased range of motion in affected muscles
- Persistent muscle tension leading to headaches or other discomfort
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional to evaluate your condition and discuss potential treatment options.
WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT?
During the procedure, the patient is positioned to allow easy access to the affected muscle. The physician palpates the muscle to locate the trigger point. After cleaning the skin, a thin needle is inserted into the trigger point, and a mixture of local anesthetic and corticosteroid is injected. The process is quick, usually taking just a few minutes per injection site.
RECOVERY AND RESULTS
Patients often experience immediate relief from pain, though some soreness at the injection site may occur. Stretching and physical therapy are typically recommended following the injection to enhance and prolong the benefits. The pain relief can last for several weeks or months, and repeated treatments may be necessary for chronic conditions.
WHEN TO SEEK EVALUATION:
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms above that interfere with your daily activities and have not responded to conservative treatments, it may be time to seek evaluation. Persistent pain, especially when accompanied by symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or weakness, warrants a thorough assessment by a specialist. Visiting Eclipse Clinic can provide you with a comprehensive evaluation and a personalized treatment plan to address your specific needs and improve your quality of life.