Trigger Point Injections

What Is a Trigger Point Injection?

A trigger point is a small knot in a muscle that forms when the muscle stays tense for too long. These knots can often be felt under the skin and are especially common in the upper back and shoulders. When pressed, they can cause pain that spreads to nearby areas.

A trigger point injection involves delivering medication (usually a local anesthetic and sometimes an anti-inflammatory) directly into the knot to help relieve muscle pain and tension.

Conditions Treated with Trigger Point Injections

Trigger point injections are often used to diagnose and treat:

Neck and shoulder pain
Myofascial pain syndrome
Fibromyalgia
Tension headaches
TMJ (temporomandibular joint) pain

What to Expect During the Procedure

When you arrive for your appointment, a staff member will review the procedure with you and answer any questions. You’ll be asked to sign a consent form before treatment begins.

In the procedure room, you’ll lie down on the treatment table. The area receiving the injection will be cleaned and prepared. Your doctor may use ultrasound to guide the needle, depending on the location and depth of the trigger point. The medication is then injected directly into the tight muscle knot.

The procedure typically takes only 5 to 10 minutes. Once it’s complete, the needle is removed and the injection site is covered with a bandage. You’ll receive instructions for aftercare and should plan to have someone drive you home.

Recovery and Pain Relief

It’s normal to feel some soreness at the injection site for up to a day after the procedure. You can use ice, rest, or over-the-counter pain relief to ease any discomfort. If you have any concerns, be sure to call your provider.

Many people experience quick relief following a trigger point injection, especially if the muscle tension was caused by repetitive motion that has since stopped. For chronic conditions like fibromyalgia or myofascial pain syndrome, injections may offer short-term relief and can be repeated as needed to help manage symptoms.

Choose Alabama Anesthesiology & Pain Consultants for Your Trigger Point Injections

Don’t let muscle pain disrupt your daily life. Trigger point injections from our providers can provide fast and lasting relief from chronic pain and tension. Contact Alabama Anesthesiology & Pain Consultants today to see if this treatment is right for you.