Trigger Point Injections: Understanding the Treatment and Its Benefits
What Is a Trigger Point?
Trigger points are sensitive areas within muscle tissue that feel like tight bands or knots when touched. Pressing on these points can cause localized pain and may also produce discomfort in other parts of the body—a phenomenon known as referred pain. For instance, applying pressure to a trigger point in the upper shoulder might send pain radiating up the neck or down the arm.
Causes of Trigger Points
These hyperirritable spots often develop due to muscle overuse, stress, poor posture, or spinal issues. Repetitive motions, heavy lifting, or prolonged periods of immobility can strain muscles, leading to the formation of trigger points. While improvements in posture, stress reduction, and regular exercise can alleviate symptoms, some trigger points persist and require medical intervention.
How Are Trigger Points Injected?
During a trigger point injection procedure, your healthcare provider will first identify and mark the painful area. The skin is then cleaned, and a topical cooling spray may be applied to numb the surface. A fine needle is inserted into the trigger point, which might cause a brief muscle twitch—a sign that the targeted area has been reached.
Medications Used: Lidocaine and Sarapin
After locating the trigger point, the practitioner injects a small amount of medication. Commonly used substances include Lidocaine and Sarapin.
- Lidocaine is a local anesthetic that temporarily numbs the injected area, providing immediate pain relief.
- Sarapin is a plant-derived extract believed to inhibit pain signals without affecting normal nerve function.
Completing the Injection
After administering the medication, the provider may gently move the needle within the trigger point to ensure thorough treatment, changing direction multiple times. The area is then massaged, and a small bandage is applied. Each injection typically takes less than 15 seconds.
What Are the Risks of Trigger Point Injections?
Trigger point injections are generally safe with minimal risks. Possible side effects include:
- Infection: Rare due to sterile techniques.
- Bleeding or Bruising: Minimal and typically resolves quickly.
- Temporary Soreness: Similar to muscle soreness after exercise or a vaccination.
Inform your healthcare provider if you have any allergies to medications, especially to local anesthetics like Lidocaine or other substances ending with “caine.”
How Will You Feel Afterward?
Relief from pain may be immediate or may develop over a few days. The duration of relief varies:
- Short-term Relief: Lasting 4–12 hours.
- Extended Relief: Potentially lasting days, weeks, or even months.
Some soreness at the injection site is normal and should subside within one to two days. Applying ice packs, gently stretching the muscle, or taking recommended over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage discomfort.
Post-Injection Care
Utilize the period of reduced pain to:
- Stretch the Treated Muscle: Helps prevent the trigger point from returning.
- Engage in Exercise Programs: Strengthens muscles and improves flexibility.
- Maintain Good Posture: Reduces strain on muscles.
- Manage Stress: Techniques like deep breathing or meditation can alleviate muscle tension.
Other Medications and Treatments
Your healthcare provider may consider other medications or therapeutic techniques based on your specific condition. Always discuss any concerns or preferences you have regarding treatment options.
Evidence Supporting Trigger Point Injections
Clinical studies have shown that trigger point injections can be effective in managing myofascial pain syndrome:
- A study published in the American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (2002) found that trigger point injections with Lidocaine significantly reduced pain in patients with myofascial pain syndrome.^[1^]
- Research in the Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (2001) demonstrated that injections using botulinum toxin and Lidocaine both provided pain relief, with botulinum toxin offering longer-lasting effects.^[2^]
Please Note: Always consult current medical literature or your healthcare provider for the most recent studies and personalized medical advice.
Conclusion
Trigger point injections offer a minimally invasive option for relieving muscle pain associated with trigger points. By combining this treatment with lifestyle modifications like proper posture, stress management, and regular exercise, many patients experience significant and lasting relief.
For personalized advice and to determine if trigger point injections are suitable for you, please consult your healthcare provider.
^[1^]: Han, S. C., & Harrison, P. (2002). Myofascial pain syndrome and trigger-point management. Reg Anesth Pain Med, 24(4), 361-372.
^[2^]: Wheeler, A. H., Goolkasian, P., & Gretz, S. S. (2001). A randomized, double-blind, prospective pilot study of botulinum toxin injection for refractory, unilateral, cervicothoracic, paraspinal, myofascial pain syndrome. Spine, 23(15), 1662-1667.