Nerve Blocks & Injections

Trigger Point & Myofascial Injections

Local anesthetic injected directly into painful muscle knots, deactivating the trigger point and interrupting the pain cycle causing local and referred pain.

Nerve

Procedure Overview

Muscle knots that cause local pain and refer pain to other areas are called myofascial trigger points. They form when muscle fibers remain contracted, restricting blood flow and generating a persistent pain cycle. Stretching and physical therapy help, but when trigger points are established, a targeted injection is often needed to deactivate them and break the cycle.

Treatment Purpose

Trigger point injections deliver local anesthetic precisely into the trigger point, the hyperirritable nodule in the muscle, deactivating it and releasing the contracted fibers. This interrupts the pain cycle causing both local and referred pain. Multiple trigger points can be treated in a single session. The procedure produces the best results when combined with physical therapy and stretching.

Appropriate Conditions

Myofascial pain syndrome
Cervicogenic headaches from neck trigger points
Fibromyalgia
Chronic neck and shoulder muscle pain
Low back muscle pain
Tension-type headaches
Myofascial pain after injury

Patient Considerations

The injection deactivates the trigger point mechanically, the needle causes the contracted muscle fibers to release. When combined with physical therapy and stretching, the results can be sustained well beyond the injection itself. Most patients benefit from a short series of 2 to 4 sessions, and many find that the relief holds with ongoing activity and movement.

Treatment Process

The procedure takes 15 to 30 minutes. Your physician identifies trigger points by palpation, pressing gently to locate the nodules. A thin needle is inserted directly into each trigger point and local anesthetic is injected. A brief muscle twitch during injection confirms successful placement. Multiple points are typically treated per session. You return to normal activities the same day.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many sessions will I need?

Most patients benefit from 2 to 4 sessions spaced 1 to 2 weeks apart. Chronic conditions may require periodic maintenance injections.

Is the procedure uncomfortable?

A brief sting and muscle twitch during injection is expected. Most patients find it tolerable and experience relief immediately after.

What are the risks?

Very low risk. Minor bruising or temporary soreness at injection sites is common. Serious complications are rare.

Medical disclaimer: This page provides general information and is not medical advice. It does not replace an evaluation by a qualified physician. Talk with a doctor about your specific condition and treatment options. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911.

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