A trigger point is a portion of the muscle that has become a source of pain and dysfunction. It usually consists of a nodule or band that can be felt by pressing the skin over the muscle. When the trigger point is pressed, it causes pain that may be localized or radiates to another part of the body. Usually performed in the office, your doctor injects a combination of medications into the trigger point, which aids in decreasing pain and the spasm. Your doctor may inject several muscle bands in order to “release” the trigger points.
While you are receiving the injections, some people feel the same pain that has been bothering them. Immediately after the injections most feel a marked reduction in their typical pain pattern. Others may be sore for a day or two and then start to appreciate the benefits. You may also have more freedom to move the affected muscle with less stiffness and soreness. Two or three days after your injections you should notice an overall decrease in pain along with an increase in movement.
Generally, 10 minutes.
Yes, strenuous activity should be avoided for the first 24 hours. Physical therapy can be helpful. The patient may experience temporary weakness in the injected muscles until the numbing medication wears off.
Overall, this procedure has minimal risks although no procedure is risk-free. Potential adverse effects include, but are not limited to temporary muscle soreness, infection, bleeding, which are exceedingly rare.
Are you ready to alleviate your pain and restore your physical function so you can live your best life – the one you want and deserve? The entire Clearway team is ready to help.
To request an appointment, please click the button below. You will be routed to our Patient Portal, where you can register with us by providing us with some basic information. We will get back as quickly as possible to set up and confirm your appointment day and time. Just below the form, we provide answers to some of the most frequently asked questions, as well.
