Trigger Point Injection

What is a trigger point injection?

A trigger point injection is the injection of a small amount of medication into the area of a muscle where you have pain and tenderness. Trigger points are focal areas of pain and tenderness due to “knots” or tight bands of muscle.

What are the goals of a trigger point injection?

The goals of a trigger point injection are:

• To reduce and possibly eliminate pain
• To increase function

How will a trigger point injection help my condition?

The trigger point injection consists of local anesthetic with or without corticosteroids. The injection breaks up the trigger points and decreases the pain.

What happens during a trigger point injection?

You will remain awake for the entire procedure. Once in the procedure suite:

• You will be positioned sitting or lying face down.
• The areas of tenderness will be located and marked.
• The area of the injection will be washed with an antiseptic solution.
• You will be asked to remain as still as possible.
• You may feel pressure while the medication is injected.

How long is the procedure?

The procedure lasts about 10 minutes.

What happens after the procedure?

You will be monitored for approximately 15 minutes, because the medication takes some time to act. A nurse will review discharge and follow-up instructions with you. The day after your procedure, you may resume your normal daily activities. You will need to do stretching exercises to the affected area and/ or attend physical therapy sessions.