Trigger Point Injections

Trigger point injections (TPI) are an option in treating pain in many patients at NW Medicine & Rehab, PLLC. TPI is used to treat painful areas in muscles that contain trigger points, or knots that develop when muscles do not relax or that stay tense for prolonged periods of time.

More often than not, such knots can be felt under the skin. The trigger points may irritate the nerves around them and caused referred pain, or pain that is felt in other parts of the body. However, you can also have trigger points that are not painful.

When Is Trigger Point Injection Used?

Trigger point injections are used to alleviate muscle pain and symptoms. TPI is widely used to treat fibromyalgia, tension headaches and migraines. Trigger point injections can be used to alleviate myofascial pain syndrome. Myofascial pain is chronic pain involving the soft tissue around the muscles.

How Can Trigger Point Therapy Injections Enhance My Treatment Plan?

It has been documented that Trigger Point Injection Therapy coupled with trigger point massage, one-on-one therapist to patient stretching, and chiropractic adjustments is the BEST COMBINATION to achieve a NON-SURGICAL method of LONG TERM musculoskeletal healing.

What Happens During A Trigger Point Injection (TPI)?

In the TPI procedure, a medical provider inserts a tiny needle into the affected area. This injection renders the trigger point inactive and the pain is alleviated. Usually, treatment will result in sustained relief and a return to normal activity. These injections are given in office at NW Medicine & Rehab, PLLC and usually take just a moment. Several sites may be treated in one visit.

What Is In Each Injection?

A combination of a local anesthetic and/or an anti-inflammatory can be used. The particular injection combination depends on what the administering medical provider, as well as the patient, agrees upon in order to achieve maximum results.

Potential Side Effects?

Redness, soreness and/or minor bruising around injection site for up to 1.4 days.

Will the Procedure Hurt?

Each injection is performed with a small needle no larger than an acupuncture needle. Minimal to no discomfort is felt for most patients.
Applying ice to the region often helps to minimize potential discomfort prior to, or after each procedure.
A trigger point located ANYWHERE in a muscle group can cause referred pain ANYWHERE in the body.