Trigger points are tight, painful knots within muscles that can cause localized pain or send discomfort to other parts of the body. They are a common component of myofascial pain syndrome. Trigger point injections are designed to relax the tense muscle fibers and reduce discomfort.
Dr. John S. Michels, an award winning, patient-approved pain management physician in Dallas, Texas, explains the benefits of trigger point injections and what to expect before, during, and after the in-office procedure.
Trigger point injections target painful muscle knots that remain tense despite stretching, massage, or rest.
The injections typically include a local anesthetic, sometimes combined with a small dose of anti-inflammatory medication. By delivering the medication directly into the tight muscle area, the injection helps relax the muscle fibers, improve blood flow, and reduce pain signals.
This treatment is commonly used for neck, shoulder, and low back pain, as well as muscle tension related to stress or overuse.
Preparation for trigger point injections is minimal. During your initial visit, Dr. Michels reviews your symptoms, examines the affected muscles, and confirms that trigger points are contributing to your pain. Imaging is rarely required, as Dr. Michels identifies trigger points through physical examination.
Most of our patients can continue their usual meals and daily medications, though Dr. Michels may discuss the use of blood thinners or specific supplements in advance. Comfortable clothing is helpful, especially if the injections involve your neck, shoulders, or back.
Because the procedure is brief and doesn’t require sedation, you can typically drive yourself to and from the appointment.
The injection process itself is quick and straightforward. After we clean your skin, Dr. Michels inserts a small needle directly into the trigger point. You may feel a brief pinch, pressure, or muscle twitch; this is a normal response and often indicates that the tight muscle is releasing.
The procedure typically takes just a few minutes, depending on the number of trigger points. Most patients tolerate it very well and do not require numbing medication or sedation.
Many of our patients notice immediate improvement due to the anesthetic, followed by mild soreness at the injection site that can last a day or two.
This post-injection soreness is temporary and often responds well to gentle stretching, heat, or over-the-counter pain relievers.
Pain relief can continue to improve over several days as the muscle relaxes. For best results, we often recommend combining trigger point injections with physical therapy, ergonomic changes, stress reduction, or posture correction.
Relief can last weeks or longer, depending on the underlying cause of muscle tension.
Trigger point injections are a safe and effective option for many patients with muscle-based pain that hasn’t responded to conservative care. Dr. Michels begins with a comprehensive evaluation to determine whether this treatment is a good fit for your needs.
Schedule an appointment with Dr. Michels at ISP Health today.
