Trigger point injections are a minor medical procedure that can be used to relieve pain associated with trigger points. After the injection, it is important to rest the trigger point area for 1-2 days. During this time, you should avoid strenuous activities and any activities that can aggravate muscle pain. After the initial rest period, you can return to work and exercise, but it is important to be mindful of any pain or discomfort that may arise.
Trigger points are very sensitive knots or bands of muscle or connective tissue that cause pain. When the doctor locates the trigger point before the injection, you may experience some spasms and discomfort. People with extremely tight muscles may even feel a crunch or a slight burning sensation. After the injection, the doctor will stretch and massage the muscle and surrounding area.
Trigger points can cause localized pain in the affected area or referred pain in seemingly unrelated areas. The benefits of trigger point injections can last anywhere from a few days to months, depending on the patient's condition and the medication injected. In addition to being painful, trigger points can cause a decreased range of motion in the affected muscles. Trigger point injections are generally safe and can provide relief for those who have not found relief with more conservative treatments such as over-the-counter pain relievers or physical therapy.
Trigger point injections are often used in conjunction with physical therapy and stretching exercises to relieve pain. Myofascial pain and trigger points are very common and occur in approximately 85% of people at some point in their lives. If you have a knot in your muscle that doesn't respond to conservative treatment, ask your doctor about trigger point injections. Trigger point injections can help reduce pain and restore normal muscle flexibility, function, and strength. They can also provide a significant improvement in range of motion and overall muscle functionality, depending on the muscle affected.