Trigger point injections (TPI) are used to treat pain caused by tense muscles that are unable to relax. Areas of muscle tension are commonly known as “knots” and they can generally be felt under the skin. Muscle knots irritate the nerve endings around them and cause painful trigger points. Trigger point injections inject a mixture of anesthetic and steroid into these painful areas to make the area numb and inactive in order to relieve pain. Most trigger point injections only take a few minutes and can provide sustained relief.
Did You Know?
Trigger points can develop as a result of traumatic tissue injury, postural problems, spinal abnormalities, underlying structural problems, degenerative disorders, or excessive muscle use.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Am I a candidate for trigger point injections?
You may be a candidate for trigger point injections if you have regular pain accompanied by muscle knots under the skin that has not improved with pain medication or physical therapy. Trigger point injections are ideal for treating muscle pain in the arms, legs, lower back, and neck, as well as treating pain from fibromyalgia, tension headaches, and myofascial pain. To determine if trigger point injections are right for you, schedule a consultation with Dr. Bortecen of SoHo Men’s Health today.
What can I expect when receiving trigger point injections at SoHo Men’s Health?
When receiving trigger point injections at SoHo Men’s Health, Dr. Bortecem will first ask you about your symptoms and medical history. He will then perform a physical exam to locate the area of your pain. A topical anesthetic may be applied to the skin, then the trigger point injection will be administered. The entire procedure only takes a few minutes.
What can I expect after receiving trigger point injections?
After your trigger point injection, you will be able to actively use the affected muscle. Most people feel relief within a few hours once the anesthetic takes effect. However, it takes about two weeks for the steroid to take effect. In most cases, the results from trigger point injections can last several weeks to several months. The risk of complications from trigger point injections is low, however you may experience temporary soreness or numbness at the injection site. In rare cases, you may also experience bleeding or infection at the injection site.
