Identifying trigger points is the key that’s helping many people find relief from pain and tension. Trigger points are tight “knots” located in bands of muscle that can create extreme pain and tension. You may actually be able to feel a noticeable knot under your skin if you suffer from a knotted trigger point. The nerve compression caused by trigger points can also produce something called referred pain that can make other areas of the body feel tender and enflamed. In addition to causing inflammation and pain, trigger points can actually cause limited range of motion and motor dysfunction. Here at Louisville Medical Center, we offer our patients suffering from muscle compression trigger point injection (TPI) treatments. While many of our patients get immediate relief after TPI treatments, this option can be used with things like manual adjustments, instrument-assisted adjustments, stretching exercises and more. Dr. Nicholas Hamilton is excited to be able to offer this holistic, fast-acting treatment to people seeking relief from musculoskeletal pain in Louisville, Lafayette, Superior and the surrounding Colorado communities.
What Is a Trigger Point Injection?
Needles are applied directly to muscle knots during trigger point injections. Most injections contain a corticosteroid. While they can be used throughout the body, trigger point injections are especially beneficial for muscle pain that is felt throughout the arms, legs, neck and lower back. The purpose of a trigger point injection is to relieve pain at the site of the knotted muscle by relaxing the knot.
What to Expect When Getting a Trigger Point Injection
A trigger point injection is a quick procedure that requires a simple office visit. When you visit us here at Louisville Medical Center, Dr. Hamilton will identify the most effective injection site before using a small, painless needle to relax the area. Many patients feel a release of tension immediately. No recovery time is needed following an injection. In fact, you can expect to be able to drive home! Most patients benefit from repeated injections done over a span of time to avoid pain reoccurrences.
It might be time to consider trigger point injections if you’re living with chronic pain and tension that’s impacting your back, shoulders and arms. The first step is booking an appointment to determine if specific trigger points in your muscles are causing the tension and inflammation you’re experiencing. In addition to utilizing an innovative option like trigger point injections, you can also explore options for a chiropractic technique like muscle-release therapy. Reach out to the Louisville Medical Center team today to book an appointment at our friendly, state-of-the-art clinic located in Louisville, Colorado.
Frequently Asked Questions About Trigger Point Injections
Trigger point injections aren’t considered painful. However, it’s not unusual to experience a temporary burning or stinging sensation when the needle is inserted. Stinging can actually be a sign that the injection is being placed at the right spot!
Most patients feel some immediate relief after getting trigger point injections. However, it’s normal for full results to be felt anywhere from 24 to 72 hours after an injection. You may not feel the full benefits of your injection for up to a week!
Most people don’t experience any side effects after injections. The most common side effect of trigger point injections is numbness at the injections site. It’s also possible to experience pain, bruising or tenderness at the injection site.
It will be important to discuss any allergies you have prior to booking an appointment for trigger point injections. An alternative treatment like dry needling may be appropriate if there are any concerns about the ingredients in trigger point injections.
There are many potential causes for why some people develop trigger points. Overuse of certain muscles is the most common factor. Repetitive movements like lifting heavy objects, working at a computer or playing certain sports can all cause tightness in the body. In addition, an injury that creates muscle trauma can cause trigger points to form.