Trigger Point Injections
Targeted relief for muscle knots and myofascial pain
About Trigger Point Injections
Trigger point injections (TPIs) are a minimally invasive procedure designed to treat painful areas of muscle that contain trigger points. These trigger points are knots that form when muscles do not relax, often causing pain that radiates to other parts of the body. The procedure involves injecting small amounts of medication directly into these trigger points to provide relief and help the muscle relax.
The injections typically contain a local anesthetic, sometimes combined with a corticosteroid to reduce inflammation. In some cases, a "dry needling" technique may be used, where no medication is injected but the insertion of the needle itself helps break up the muscle knot. Trigger point injections are a valuable tool in managing myofascial pain syndrome, tension headaches, and various forms of chronic muscle pain.
Precise Targeting
Directly treats the source of pain in specific muscle knots
Quick Procedure
Brief office-based treatment with minimal recovery time
Improved Function
Helps restore normal muscle activity and movement
Who Can Benefit
Trigger point injections are particularly beneficial for patients with:
- Palpable trigger points (muscle knots that can be felt under the skin) causing persistent pain
- Myofascial pain that hasn't responded adequately to other treatments like physical therapy or massage
- Muscle pain that radiates or refers pain to other areas of the body
- Tension headaches originating from trigger points in the neck, shoulders, or upper back
- Fibromyalgia patients with identifiable trigger points contributing to their pain
- Individuals who need temporary relief to participate more effectively in physical therapy or rehabilitation
Dr. Hemani will conduct a thorough physical examination to identify and confirm the presence of trigger points before recommending this treatment. The ideal candidate has specific, identifiable trigger points that reproduce their pain pattern when pressed.
Types of Trigger Point Injections
Dr. Hemani offers several approaches to trigger point injections, tailored to your specific needs:
Local Anesthetic Injections
The most common type of trigger point injection uses a local anesthetic like lidocaine or procaine. These medications temporarily numb the area and help the muscle relax, breaking the pain-spasm cycle. The effects of the anesthetic wear off after a few hours, but the trigger point often remains relaxed afterward.
Corticosteroid Combinations
For trigger points with significant inflammation, a corticosteroid may be added to the local anesthetic. The steroid helps reduce inflammation in the area, potentially providing longer-lasting relief. This approach is typically used when there's evidence of inflammation contributing to the trigger point formation.
Dry Needling
In this technique, no medication is injected. Instead, the insertion of the needle itself into the trigger point causes a small lesion that triggers a local twitch response. This mechanical disruption of the trigger point can help release the muscle knot. Dry needling is often used when patients have allergies to local anesthetics or when multiple sessions are needed.
Complementary Approaches
For optimal results, trigger point injections are often combined with other treatments such as:
- • Physical therapy to improve muscle function and prevent recurrence
- • Stretching exercises to maintain muscle length and flexibility
- • Posture correction to address underlying mechanical factors
- • Ergonomic modifications to reduce strain on affected muscles
Frequently Asked Questions
Schedule a Consultation
If you're suffering from chronic pain, Dr. Hemani can help determine if trigger point injections are right for you. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.
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Learn MoreMedical Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with Dr. Hemani or another qualified healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.
