Trigger Point Injections

A trigger point is a tight, tender knot in a muscle that can cause pain in the area and sometimes refer pain to other places, such as from the upper shoulder into the head. A trigger point injection uses a very thin needle to place a small amount of numbing medicine, sometimes with a steroid, directly into the knot to help it relax.

These injections are usually done in the office in just a few minutes, without X-ray. A related treatment called dry needling, done by some physical therapists, uses a thin needle without medicine.

• Muscle pain and spasm in the neck, upper back, shoulders or low back
• Muscle tension that develops around a painful spine problem, such as chronic neck pain, whiplash or chronic low back pain
• Tension headaches that start in the neck and shoulders
• Myofascial pain syndrome

Trigger point injections treat the muscles, not the discs, joints or nerves, so they work best alongside physical therapy and stretching.

• Tell the provider if you take a blood thinner or have a bleeding problem.
• Tell them about any allergies to numbing medicine.
• Wear clothing that allows easy access to the painful area.
• No fasting is needed, and most people can drive themselves home.

The provider feels for the tight knot, cleans the skin and inserts a very thin needle. You may feel a brief twitch or ache in the muscle as it releases. Several spots may be treated in one visit, which takes about 5 to 15 minutes.

The area may be sore for a day or two. Gentle stretching, heat and staying active help. Many people notice looser muscles and less pain within days. Injections can be repeated if they help.

Trigger point injections are very low-risk. Possible side effects include soreness, bruising and, rarely, infection. When injections are given near the chest wall, there is a very small risk of puncturing the lung, which is why they are done by trained providers.

Do trigger point injections hurt?

You may feel a quick pinch and a brief twitch or ache as the muscle releases. The needle is very thin, and the visit is short.

How long do trigger point injections last?

Relief varies from days to weeks or longer. They work best when combined with stretching and physical therapy.

What is the difference between trigger point injections and dry needling?

Both place a thin needle into a muscle knot. Trigger point injections use medicine; dry needling, done by some physical therapists, uses the needle alone.

If you have neck pain, back pain or nerve pain and want to know which treatments make sense for you, call 470-293-9800 or contact us to schedule a visit with Dr. Grunch or one of her physician assistants. You can also ask general questions any time through our “Ask Us Anything” chat.

Related: All non-surgical treatment options · Physical therapy · Chronic neck pain

This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It does not replace individualized care from a licensed physician. Please talk to your provider about your symptoms and treatment options.