How Do Trigger Point Injections Work?

If you're suffering from chronic pain caused by trigger points, you may have heard of trigger point injections as a treatment option. These injections are a common treatment option that can provide relief for many people. In this blog, we will discuss how trigger point injections work to relieve pain.

What are Trigger Points?

Trigger points are small, tight knots in your muscles that can cause a significant amount of pain and discomfort. They are commonly found in the neck, shoulders, and back, but can also occur in other areas of the body. Trigger point injections are a type of therapy that uses a combination of a local anesthetic and a steroid to help reduce inflammation and pain in these areas.

How Do Trigger Point Injections Work?

The process of receiving a trigger point injection is relatively simple and straightforward. A medical professional will locate the trigger point causing the pain and insert a needle into the area. The medication is then injected directly into the affected muscle. The entire procedure usually takes less than 30 minutes.

How Do Trigger Point Injections Relieve Pain?

There are several ways in which trigger point injections work to relieve pain. First and foremost, the local anesthetic numbs the area surrounding the trigger point. This numbing effect can help reduce pain for several hours after the injection. Additionally, the steroid in the injection helps to reduce inflammation and swelling in the affected area, which can further reduce pain.

Another way that trigger point injections work to relieve pain is by interrupting the cycle of pain signals being sent to the brain. When a muscle is tense and has a trigger point, it can send pain signals to the brain even when there is no actual injury or damage to the area. The injection can help interrupt these signals, providing much-needed relief.

How Long Does Pain Relief Take?

Most people who receive trigger point injections report relief from their pain within a few days to a week after the injection. However, it is important to note that the effectiveness of the treatment can vary from person to person. Some people may require multiple injections before experiencing significant relief.

While trigger point injections can be an effective treatment option, they are not a cure for chronic pain caused by trigger points. To make the most of the treatment, it's essential to address the underlying cause of the trigger points. This may include physical therapy, stretching exercises, or other forms of therapy to help reduce muscle tension and prevent future trigger points from forming.

Trigger Point Injections at Inspired Spine

Trigger point injections can be an effective treatment option for those suffering from chronic pain caused by trigger points. The combination of a local anesthetic and steroid can help reduce inflammation and pain in the affected area while interrupting the cycle of pain signals being sent to the brain.

If you are considering this treatment option, schedule a consultation with the doctors at Inspired Spine. We work with our patients to find the right treatment plans for their pain to help them find long-lasting relief.

Contact Inspired Spine at (952) 225-5266 for a free consultation.