Trigger Point Injections (TPI)
What is a trigger point injection (TPI)?
Trigger point injections are designed to relieve pain caused by tight, painful areas of muscle, known as trigger points. These points can form when muscles are unable to relax, leading to discomfort, reduced range of motion, and referred pain in surrounding areas.
During a TPI procedure, a small amount of medication—typically a local anesthetic, anti-inflammatory agent, or regenerative solution—is injected directly into the trigger point to release tension, improve blood flow, and promote healing.
What conditions are treated with TPI?
This modality is highly effective for conditions associated with muscle pain and tension, including:
- Myofascial pain syndrome
- Piriformis syndrome
- Tension headaches and migraines
- Chronic neck or back pain
- Fibromyalgia-related muscle pain
- Pain following injuries or overuse
- Sports-related muscle tightness
Trigger point injections are often part of a comprehensive pain management or rehabilitation plan, delivered to boost the effectiveness of other therapies like physical therapy or chiropractic care.
What to expect when getting trigger point injections
For the procedure, patients are comfortably positioned on one side while the provider uses ultrasound guidance to locate the trigger point. A fine needle is then inserted into the muscle knot, and the injection is precisely administered.
The procedure typically takes only a few minutes, and most patients report minimal discomfort. Some may feel immediate relief following a session, while others notice gradual improvement in the days that follow. And although there may be some mild soreness at the injection site, it usually self-resolves quickly.
The total number of sessions required depends on the severity of symptoms and individual responses to treatment. Relief can be experienced after just one session, or after a series of injections administered over several weeks.
Am I a candidate for trigger point injections?
TPIs are an excellent option for individuals who experience muscle pain that hasn’t responded to other treatments, such as rest, stretching, or physical therapy. Ideal candidates are often:
- People with chronic muscle tension or pain
- Those experiencing referred pain from trigger points
- Athletes contending with sports-related muscle tightness
- Individuals managing fibromyalgia or other pain syndromes
The Orthohealing Center’s personalized approach begins with a thorough evaluation to determine the ideal treatment(s) for each patient’s unique objectives and needs.
How many TPI sessions are needed?
The number of trigger point injection sessions required depends on the severity of symptoms and the patient’s response to treatment. Some individuals experience significant relief after just one session, while others benefit from a series of injections spaced over several weeks.
Treatment plans are customized for each patient to ensure the best possible results and care to alleviate pain and improve your quality of life.
