What It Is: Trigger point injections are a treatment for painful areas of muscle that contain trigger points, or knots of muscle that form when muscles do not relax. During the procedure, a healthcare provider injects a small amount of local anesthetic, sometimes combined with a steroid, directly into the trigger point. This helps to alleviate the muscle tension and pain.

How It Will Help: These injections can provide prompt relief from muscle pain and discomfort associated with the trigger points. By inactivating the trigger point, the muscle can relax, which significantly reduces pain and improves mobility. The treatment is particularly effective for patients who suffer from conditions like fibromyalgia, tension headaches, or myofascial pain syndrome, where these painful points are common.

Why It Is Safe: Trigger point injections are considered a safe procedure with minimal risks. The injections are typically well-tolerated and only involve small amounts of medication, minimizing potential side effects. The most common side effects are temporary and include pain or bruising at the injection site. The procedure avoids systemic medication effects, making it a safe option for patients who may be sensitive to oral pain medications or for those looking for localized treatment without systemic effects.