According to the CDC, in 2019, 20.4% of adults had chronic pain and 7.4% of adults had chronic pain that frequently limited life or work activities. Chronic pain is defined as pain lasting three months or longer and has detrimental effects on a person's health leading to depression, anxiety and difficulty sleeping, which can make intensify pain
What are Trigger Point Injections (TPI)?
Trigger point injections contain small amounts of anesthetic and possibly steroids that can be injected into painful muscles. They help soothe muscle pain in the arms, legs, upper and lower back, and neck. By injecting anesthetic and steroids into trigger point areas, it can help you to alleviate pain.
When are they used?
Often, inflammation and pain develop from a muscle injury or strain. Some common causes include stress, muscle overuse, poor posture, athletic injury, or work injury. Trigger point injections are often used when other treatments do not alleviate pain. The trigger point technique is used to relieve muscle pain associated with pain and inflammation in the tissue surrounding the muscle. Chronic muscle pain may involve a single muscle or a group of muscles.
What is the procedure?
You will sit or lie down during the procedure, depending on the location of the pain. A member of our trained staff will press on your muscle to locate areas of pain. Inserting a small needle into the area and injecting a mixture of anesthetic and possible steroid will occur. Depending on your aches and pains, you may have several trigger points injected during one visit. The procedure only takes a few minutes.
What are the risks of trigger point injections?
The risk of complication from a trigger point injection is shallow. Complications such as bleeding and infection at the injection site are uncommon. However, you may experience temporary soreness or numbness at the injection site.
What are the benefits of trigger point injections?
Trigger point injections relieve individuals suffering from pain associated with trigger points. They are often used when pain is not alleviated by other treatments, such as pain medication or physical therapy.
What happens after the procedure?
After a trigger point injection treatment, patients can use the muscle that was treated but is advised to refrain from vigorous activity for a few days. Most patients experience pain relief between 24-72 hours after injection. Pain relief can last about one month but varies by patient. Frequent injections may be needed to achieve long-term pain relief. If the injections consist of anesthetic only, patients can receive injections more frequently than if they also contain steroid medication. This is because steroids increase the risk of tissue damage.
Are Trigger Point Injections Right for You?
Trigger point injections may be right for you if your muscle pain has not improved with other treatments, such as over-the-counter medications, physical therapy, etc.
To schedule an evaluation today, call our staff at Reform ABQ at (505) 420-6979 or schedule your appointment online at: