Trigger Point Injection
What are Trigger Point Injections?
Trigger points are hyperirritable spots in the skeletal muscle that can cause localized pain and often refer pain to other areas. These knots of muscle fiber can be incredibly painful and limit mobility. Trigger point injections (TPIs) are a minimally invasive procedure designed to alleviate this pain by directly targeting these problem areas.
The injection typically contains a local anesthetic, sometimes combined with a corticosteroid, which is precisely inserted into the trigger point. This medication helps to relax the muscle fibers and reduce inflammation, effectively “deactivating” the trigger point and providing pain relief.
We commonly use TPIs to treat conditions such as:
- Myofascial pain
- Chronic back pain
- Neck pain
- Shoulder pain
- Upper back pain
Benefits of Trigger Point Injections
At Integrity Advnaced Medical we’ve seen the significant benefits TPIs can provide. Many of our patients report a significant improvement in their pain level and quality of life following a series of trigger point injections. With targeted treatments, patients can experience many benefits, including:
- Immediate pain relief in many cases
- Improved range of motion and flexibility
- Reduced muscle tension and spasms
- Enhanced effectiveness of physical therapy
- Improved sleep quality
- Increased ability to perform daily activities
The Procedure Explained
Before the Procedure:
- Inform us about any medications you’re taking, especially blood thinners.
- Discuss any allergies, particularly to anesthetics or steroids.
- If you’re anxious about needles, let us know so we can take steps to make you more comfortable.
During the Procedure:
The TPI procedure is relatively quick and straightforward:
- We’ll identify the trigger point through physical examination.
- The injection site will be cleaned with an antiseptic solution.
- A small needle will be inserted directly into the trigger point.
- The medication (typically a mixture of local anesthetic) will be injected.
- The needle is removed, and a small bandage is applied.
- The entire process usually takes just a few minutes.
After the Procedure:
- You may experience some soreness at the injection site for a day or two.
- Apply ice or heat as needed for comfort.
- Avoid strenuous activity for the rest of the day, but gentle stretching is encouraged.
- You may resume normal activities the following day unless instructed otherwise.
Potential Risks and Side Effects
Trigger point injections are generally safe. However, as with any medical treatment, it’s important to be aware of risks and side effects.
Common side effects:
- Minor bleeding or bruising
- Temporary pain or numbness at the injection site
Rare complications:
- Infection at the injection site
- Allergic reaction to the medication
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