Summary of Procedure: Trigger Point Injection
Many people suffer from muscle pain and tightness. Trigger points are knots that occur in muscles due to tension and the inability to rest and relax. If a trigger point is not appropriately managed, surrounding nerves may become agitated and cause pain.
A trigger point injection is a minimally invasive injection that aids in reducing pain and inflammation. The injection, comprised of a local anesthetic and sometimes a corticosteroid, is inserted into a specific trigger point. Depending on the patient’s health, one may be eligible to treat multiple trigger points during one session.
Patients that suffer from chronic tension headaches, fibromyalgia, and myofascial pain syndrome may also be good candidates for trigger point injections.
Related: Injections for Back Pain in Greenville
What to Expect Post-Procedure of a Trigger Point Injection
The procedure for a trigger point injection only takes a few minutes. The physician will feel all over the painful area for the trigger point. Then he/she will administer the injection once that trigger spot is found.
Following the procedure, the patient is allowed to use that muscle, but it is suggested that they refrain from any strenuous activity involving that muscle for the next few days. The patient should start to feel pain relief within 24-72 hours.
The pain relief usually lasts for 1 month following the injection procedure. In order to gain long-term pain relief, it may be necessary for the patient to receive recurring injections. If the injection only contain an anesthetic, then the patient is able to receive more frequent injections.
If the injection contains a steroid as well, then it is best to limit the frequency of the injections. This is due to possible muscle damage that is caused by excessive use of steroid injections.
There are few risks associated with trigger point injections. The main risk is of infection at the injection site. Call your physician immediately if there is soreness, redness, or if the area feels hot to the touch. These side effects can indicate an infection.
Contact Carolina Spine and Pain Centers for more information on trigger point injections if you suffer from any of the aforementioned conditions or have additional questions. We have several locations throughout the state of South Carolina. Get in touch by calling us at 864-808-2995 or by filling out an appointment request form on our contact page.