Myofascial Trigger Point Injection

Myofascial Trigger Point Injection

When the muscle or tissue develops a tight knot within them, a trigger point is created. These are sore and painful to the touch and can cause a lot of discomfort and pain for many. It’s also not uncommon for this condition to cause muscle spasms and twitches; weakening the body. Trigger points can occur almost anywhere on the body however, they more commonly appear on the buttocks, back, and neck. It’s also common for them to cause other troublesome problems such as headaches and pain in the eyes.

There are two main types of trigger points; latent and active. Latent trigger points may only cause pain when pressure is applied; however, they cause muscle weakness and stiffness. On the other hand, active trigger points will still cause muscle weakness and stiffness while being painful without the need of someone to touch them. It’s not uncommon for active trigger points to cause pain even as a person is sleeping, making them particularly troublesome for many.

A myofascial trigger point injection is a minor procedure that counters this ailment via an injection that relieves the pain found within the muscle and tissue. This injection will consist of long-acting anesthesia and occasionally, an anti-inflammatory agent. The injection, once inserted at the targeted site, will allow for the relief of pain and the recovery of mobility for several days, weeks, or longer. Many patients repeat the procedure as many times as needed in the future to counter their symptoms.

Causes of Trigger Points

Typically, trigger points are not a condition that occurs on their own; they are often caused by some other related injury or ailment. As such, myofascial trigger point injections usually occur to help patients gain pain relief and more mobility in their muscles in order for them to perform physiotherapy, exercise therapy, or some rehabilitation program to counter their ailment. Below is a list of ailments and causes which may create a trigger point:

  • Acute injuries
  • Chronic muscle clenching
  • Inactivity
  • Wear and tear from everyday activities
  • Poor posture and body mechanics
  • Continuous overuse of muscles

What Happens During the Procedure?

As the procedure is very simple, it is done as an outpatient procedure.

  • Step 1: Our specialist will locate the trigger point and clean the overlying skin in the area.
  • Step 2: The needle will pierce the skin and be guided by our expert into the underlying muscle or tissue. Once the target muscle or tissue is located, the medicine will be injected.
  • Step 3: After a brief moment of stretching the muscle; the patient will be free to go. There may be a follow-up appointment set to evaluate the patient’s pain as well as prescribe another injection.

Risks and Side Effects of Myofascial Trigger Point Injections

Although not common, there are some reports of complications and side effects occurring after myofascial trigger point injections. These side effects are typically temporary but there are some rare cases where they can become serious. These uncommon and rare complications are as follows:

  • Allergic reaction
  • Bleeding
  • Bruising
  • Infection
  • Nerve damage

Typically, these risks can be reduced by speaking with our specialists about relevant information such as the following:

  • Sharing with the doctor any allergies you may have
  • Sharing with the doctor if you are nursing or pregnant
  • Contacting the doctor immediately after any signs of bleeding, fever, or increased pain
  • Following after-procedure instructions exactly
  • Following lifestyle changes recommendations exactly

At Progressive Pain and Rehabilitation, our health experts provide the best, and latest Myofascial Trigger Point Injection services aimed to ensure you’re back to your best feeling. Contact us today to schedule your evaluation for any of our quality pain management services.