Trigger Point Injections

Why Choose Precision Care for Trigger Point Injections?

At Precision Care, NY we specialize in pain management, ensuring that every patient receives expert care tailored to their needs. Our team prioritizes patient well-being and aims to enhance everyday functioning and quality of life. Using state-of-the-art technology, we diagnose and treat pain effectively, often eliminating it entirely.

TPIs are one of the most frequently requested treatments at Precision Care. They are particularly effective in addressing pain from tension headaches, fibromyalgia, and injuries. Since trigger points can cause referred pain—pain felt in areas other than the site of the trigger point—treating them often alleviates discomfort in multiple parts of the body.

What Are Trigger Points?

Trigger points are tight, painful knots in muscle fibers that develop from strain, injury, or underlying conditions. These knots can range in size from a pea to a walnut and are typically tender to the touch. Pain from trigger points may be localized or referred to other areas of the body. Unlike typical muscle soreness, trigger points often do not respond to conventional treatments such as massage, chiropractic adjustments, or over-the-counter medications.

Trigger points are classified as:

• Active Trigger Points: These cause pain at the site and can result in referred pain or fatigue. For example, active trigger points in the neck and shoulders can lead to tension headaches or jaw pain (TMJ). They may press against nerves, causing additional symptoms such as tinnitus.
• Latent Trigger Points: These do not cause symptoms until activated, often by stress, strain, or injury.

What Is a Trigger Point Injection?

A trigger point injection is a treatment designed to deactivate trigger points and provide pain relief. The injection may contain:

1. A corticosteroid to reduce inflammation
2. An anesthetic to numb the area
3. A combination of both
4. Saline (for dry needling techniques, which stimulate the muscle without medication)

This treatment is particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing:

• Persistent muscle pain
• Painful muscle twitches
• Referred pain to other areas

TestimonialsWhat Our Client Says

★ ★ ★ ★ ★The Doctor seems to me to be the best I have ever visited, with a lot of experience, kindness and professionalism. And the staff’s patient care is very professional. Very good attention.

elizabeth

★ ★ ★ ★ ★I am very happy with the Doctor, very good experience’ and at this moment I am already recovering, therefore I recommend the doctor to those who have pain like I had.

Santi Julcamanyan

★ ★ ★ ★ ★The whole team is friendly and approachable. The doctors is caring, very smart. Very reliable team You won’t regret your visit because they’ll make sure that your pain is gone.

Gabriel Malakov

Purpose of Trigger Point Injections

Trigger point injections aim to deactivate the trigger point causing pain. While some patients initially attempt self-care—such as applying ice, heat, or massage, or using over-the-counter pain medications—these methods may not be sufficient for chronic or severe pain. Trigger point injections are especially useful for treating conditions like:

• Myofascial Pain Syndrome: A chronic pain disorder where sensitive trigger points cause widespread muscle pain and tenderness, often linked to repetitive motions or stress.
• Fibromyalgia: A condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbances.
• Tension Headaches and Migraines: Severe headaches caused by muscle knots in the neck and shoulders pressing on nerves.

The Injection Procedure

Trigger point injections are performed in the office and typically take 30 to 60 minutes. Here is what you can expect:

1. Preparation: You will be asked to sit or lie down based on the injection site. The doctor will locate the trigger point by palpating the muscle.
2. Injection: After cleaning the site, a small needle is inserted into the trigger point using fluoroscopy or X-ray guidance. Numbing sprays or local anesthetics may be applied to reduce discomfort.
3. Post-Injection Care: The doctor may stretch the muscle and apply heat or a vapocoolant spray to relax the area.

After the Procedure

Patients can usually return to their daily activities the same day. Some soreness at the injection site is normal and can be managed with:

• Ice packs (applied for 15-20 minutes, several times a day)
• Alternating moist heat and ice
• Over-the-counter pain relievers like Tylenol or ibuprofen

Engaging in light stretching and strengthening exercises as recommended by your doctor can also promote healing.

Potential Risks and Side Effects

Trigger point injections are safe, but side effects and complications can occur, including:

• Temporary soreness, bruising, or bleeding at the injection site
• Muscle stiffness
• Rare allergic reactions to medications
• Infection or hematoma
• Minor skin indentation if corticosteroids are used

For injections near the chest wall or lower neck, there is a very rare risk of lung puncture or nerve injury.

What to Expect

The pain relief from trigger point injections may last several weeks to months. While some patients experience immediate relief, others may require multiple injections for maximum benefit. Your doctor will discuss the need for follow-up treatments and additional therapies if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does the procedure take?Each injection takes a few minutes. You will stay in the office for about 20 minutes afterward for monitoring.
2. Will the injection hurt?Most patients feel a brief burning or stinging sensation during the injection, followed by a twitching or pressure sensation.
3. Is the recovery time long?Recovery is minimal. Most patients can return to work the same day but should avoid strenuous activities.
4. What if I need more than one injection?Additional injections can be scheduled 3-4 weeks apart if needed.