What Are Trigger Point Injections?
Trigger point injections are a treatment designed to alleviate pain in the muscles by targeting areas where the muscle has become tight and cannot relax, often referred to as trigger points. These points are typically tender and can produce pain in other parts of the body when stimulated. The injections may contain a local anesthetic, saline, or a corticosteroid, which can help to relax the muscle, alleviate pain, and decrease the inflammation in the affected area, providing relief from muscular pain and discomfort.
This procedure is most commonly used for individuals suffering from conditions such as myofascial pain syndrome, tension headaches, or some forms of chronic pain where trigger points are present. It is a quick outpatient procedure, usually taking only a few minutes and often brings immediate relief of symptoms. The effectiveness and duration of relief from injections can vary significantly, depending on the specific condition being treated, the individual patient's response to the treatment, and other factors such as the severity of the condition and overall health.