Overview:
- Muscle pain from fibromyalgia or myofascial pain syndrome may benefit from an interventional pain therapy called a trigger point injection.
- Trigger point injections help relieve painful, knotted areas of muscle.
- The pain management specialists at Tulsa Pain share why trigger point injections may benefit muscle or breakthrough pain.
Trigger point injections contain a local anesthetic, saline solution, and/or corticosteroid to help quickly and efficiently inactivate a trigger point causing pain. For some cases of muscle or breakthrough pain, a needle with no medication may be inserted to provide subsequent relief. This technique is often called "dry needling” and can be just as beneficial at relieving pain, depending on the patient’s symptoms and condition.
These injections take a few minutes to perform and usually provide long-lasting relief. For those undergoing a trigger point injection, soreness and minor discomfort may be present around the injection site. To minimize discomfort, patients can apply an ice pack, massage the affected area or perform a series of stretching exercises.
Trigger point injections may be effective for the following:
- Bicep pain, inflammation or degeneration
- Fibromyalgia, myofascial or muscular pain, muscle spasm, tendonitis
- Bursitis of the shoulder
- Foot pain or inflammation
- Hamstring pain
- Trauma or pain to the knee.
Neck pain and tension headaches have also benefited from trigger point injections, especially after over-the-counter and prescription pain relievers haven’t providing relief. Side effects, although uncommon, can develop after a trigger point injection. Bleeding, redness and swelling have been known to occur. If you experience any of these symptoms after your trigger point injection, call Tulsa Pain immediately to see a physician.
If you’re interested in learning more about trigger point injections, or would like to see if this therapy is right for you, call Tulsa Pain today!
Tulsa Pain is a multi-location pain management practice in Oklahoma that specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of chronic pain. We are dedicated to helping those who are suffering find the relief they deserve. Our team uses a balanced approach by incorporating minimally invasive, outpatient procedures, complementary and alternative medicine, and medication to help patients take control of their pain. Call 855-918-PAIN or click on our “Request An Appointment” tab to meet with one of our talented pain management specialists today!
The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only, and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.
