Trigger Point Injections
Targeted injections that relax tight, tender knots in muscle, to relieve neck, shoulder, back, and other muscle pain.
What are trigger points?
Trigger points are tight, tender spots within a band of muscle. Pressing on one often causes pain right there and pain that spreads, or refers, to another area. They are common in the neck, shoulders, upper and low back, and hips, and they can contribute to tension headaches.1
Trigger points can develop after an injury, from repetitive strain or posture, or alongside other painful conditions such as arthritis or a pinched nerve. This type of pain is called myofascial pain.
- Neck and shouldersOften with tension headaches or pain between the shoulder blades
- Low back and hipsOften alongside spine or hip problems
- Limited motionTight muscles can make it hard to turn, bend, or reach
How it works
-
Find the knot
Your clinician presses along the muscle to find the tender spot that reproduces your pain.
-
Small injection
A very thin needle places a small amount of numbing medicine into the trigger point. A steroid is sometimes added.
-
Muscle relaxes
The needle and medicine help the knot release. You may feel a brief twitch, which is normal.
-
Stretch and move
Gentle stretching and therapy afterward help keep the muscle relaxed.
- FastTakes just a few minutes, during an office visit.
- Several spots at onceMultiple trigger points can be treated at the same visit.
- Pairs with therapyRelief can make stretching and physical therapy more effective.
- Low riskUses small needles and small amounts of medicine.
What to expect
Before your injection
Tell us about your medications, especially blood thinners, and any allergies to numbing medicine.
During your injection
You sit or lie comfortably. Each injection takes only seconds. You may feel a quick twitch or a brief increase in your familiar pain.
After your injection
Soreness for a day or two is common. Heat, gentle stretching, and staying active help. Most people return to their usual routine the same day.
Common questions
How quickly will I feel better?
Some people notice relief right away from the numbing medicine. Muscle soreness can last a day or two before the full benefit is felt.
How many injections will I need?
It depends. Some people need one or two sessions, while others benefit from a short series combined with physical therapy and stretching.
Are trigger point injections the same as dry needling?
They are similar. Dry needling uses a needle without medicine. Trigger point injections add numbing medicine, which can make the treatment more comfortable.
Will insurance cover it?
Most plans cover trigger point injections when they are medically necessary. Our staff can help you check your benefits.
Talk with a specialist about muscle pain
Our clinicians will examine the painful area and decide whether trigger point injections, or another treatment, is the right fit for you.
New pain management patients need a referral. Your provider can fax it to 870-706-2428.
Risks
Possible side effects include soreness or bruising at the injection site, lightheadedness, and, rarely, infection. When muscles over the chest or upper back are treated, there is a rare risk of a collapsed lung. Your clinician will review the risks with you before your procedure. Individual results vary.
Sources
- Alvarez DJ, Rockwell PG. Trigger points: diagnosis and management. Am Fam Physician. 2002;65(4):653-660. PubMed 11871683