Trigger Point Injection
When your muscles are not relaxed, they can form painful knots. This pain can even travel to a different spot on your body. These knots are called trigger points, and they can cause muscle pain in several muscle groups.
What is trigger point injection?
Trigger point injection (TPI) is a procedure where an anesthetic is injected into a trigger point to relieve pain. Sometimes, a steroid is also injected to help with reducing inflammation.
TPI is used for treating muscle pain in the limbs, neck, and lower back, as well as tension headaches and fibromyalgia. Chronic muscle pain that does not respond to other treatments can also be treated with TPI.
How is trigger point injection performed?
The patient either sits or lies down. The doctor presses on the affected muscle to locate the trigger point. With the location identified, the doctor then uses a small needle to inject an anesthetic into the trigger point. A corticosteroid may also be used with the injection.
If the patient feels muscle pain in other parts of their body, they can choose to get a trigger point injection for each of these areas. The entire procedure takes only a few minutes.
What to expect after the procedure
Patients can use the treated muscles after the procedure. One treatment can provide pain relief for a long time. It is important, however, to exercise caution and avoid exerting too much physical effort immediately following the procedure.
Is trigger point injection right for you?
If chronic neck and back myofascial pain is keeping you from doing your regular daily activities, then a trigger point injection might be right for you. Call our expert pain management doctor at Torrance Pain Institue for a trigger point injection in Torrance and we’ll discuss your options.