Preparing for a Trigger Point Injection Procedure: What to Expect During Treatment

If you have been experiencing muscle pain and tension that just won't go away, you may have heard about trigger point injections as a possible treatment option. Trigger point injections are a minimally invasive procedure that can provide relief for those suffering from chronic muscle pain caused by trigger points. These injections involve the use of a small needle to administer medication directly into the trigger point, which is a tight knot of muscle that can cause pain and discomfort.
 

Understanding Trigger Points and Their Symptoms

Trigger points are highly irritable areas within a muscle that can cause localized pain, as well as referred pain in other parts of the body. They can develop due to muscle overuse, injury, or even stress. Common symptoms of trigger points include muscle stiffness, tenderness, and aching pain. These symptoms can significantly impact your daily life, making simple tasks difficult and uncomfortable.
 

Trigger point injections are typically recommended when other conservative treatments have not provided sufficient relief. If you have been experiencing persistent muscle pain that has not improved with traditional therapies, your healthcare provider may suggest trigger point injections as a next step.
 

What to Expect During a Trigger Point Injection Procedure

During a trigger point injection procedure, you will be positioned in a way that allows the healthcare provider to access the trigger point easily. The skin over the injection site will be cleaned and sterilized to minimize the risk of infection. Your healthcare provider will then insert a small needle into the trigger point. You may feel a brief pinching sensation as the needle is inserted, but the procedure is generally well-tolerated and not overly painful.
 

Once the needle is in place, your healthcare provider will inject a combination of lidocaine and a plant-based medication into the trigger point. The medication works to relieve pain and reduce inflammation in the area. After the injection, you may experience some immediate relief, although it may take a few days for the full effects to be felt.
 

Schedule Your Consultation with Summit Medical Care Center Today

By understanding what trigger point injections are, how they work, and what to expect during the procedure, you can approach your treatment with confidence. Consult with your healthcare provider to determine if trigger point injections are the right option for you and take the necessary steps to prepare for the procedure. With the proper preparation and realistic expectations, trigger point injections can be a valuable tool in managing chronic muscle pain.
 

Are you ready to take the next step towards managing your chronic muscle pain? Consult with our Nurse Practitioner or Dr. Brad Richardson to see if trigger point injections are right for you. Visit Summit Medical Care Center at our office in Broomfield, Colorado, or call (720) 740-6700 to schedule an appointment today.