Understanding Trigger Point Injections for Muscle Pain

Muscular neck and back pain affects between 10 and 20 percent of adults, according to a study published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. Any form of pain in these areas—the shoulders or limbs—could impede a patient’s ability to work, move around, or experience a normal quality of life. Our board-certified Interventional Pain Management Specialist, Dr. Anthony Alexander, and his team at The Pain Medicine & Rehabilitation Center, in Seymour and Jeffersonville, IN, can help you manage muscular pain with trigger point injections.

What Is a Trigger Point?

A trigger point is a specific location in the body that can be a source of significant pain when inflamed or injured. It is a knot or tightening in the back, shoulders, neck, or limb muscles that form due to some type of trauma or injury. Trigger points are sensitive to pain and touch, which is how you and your doctor can identify them. They may also cause twitching of the muscles when pressed or a limited range of motion. Some patients also report tension headaches caused by trigger-point discomfort.

How Do Trigger Point Injections Help?

Trigger point injections administered by our Seymour and Jeffersonville, IN, pain management specialist can significantly relieve muscle pain and aches. The injection will likely contain a corticosteroid or a mixture of anesthetic medications. The results can last up to a month before you need another treatment. When you have reduced pain, you can feel more comfortable, flexible, and able to stretch your joints and muscles while exercising or moving around, which can contribute to healing over time.

Getting Trigger Point Injections

After a full exam, evaluation, and needed X-rays, your doctor will identify the trigger points that should be targeted. Just as you may experience with any injection, you will lie down on a table in the office, and the needle will be inserted into the marked location until the medication has been thoroughly distributed. You may also receive an anesthetic to help reduce any discomfort. After the appointment, you can return to normal activity, but it’s best to rest for a few days. Follow your doctor’s advice closely. Your doctor will likely recommend that you set up a regular office visit for trigger point injections. Expect to schedule a recurring appointment at least every eight weeks.

Schedule a Visit

After consulting with Dr. Alexander, a pain management doctor at The Pain Medicine & Rehabilitation Center in Seymour and Jeffersonville, IN, you may be scheduled for a regimen of trigger point injections to aid your healing process. Don’t wait call (812) 523-3700 today to schedule an appointment.