Many patients with chronic muscle pain in different parts of the body experience persistent muscle tightness that makes relaxation and recovery difficult. There are several treatments available for muscle tension, such as pain medications, physical therapy, acupuncture, or self-stretching. These approaches can reduce pain to some extent and promote muscle relaxation.
However, for some patients whose symptoms do not improve sufficiently, a targeted approach called Trigger Point Injection may be required to relieve muscle contraction effectively.
How Trigger Point Injection Works
Trigger point injection delivers medication directly into the tight muscle area, helping it relax quickly. This treatment is ideal for patients who have not achieved adequate results with other methods. When performed by a skilled physician, it is considered very safe, although minor complications may occur in cases where the procedure is not done properly.
Treatment Procedure and Recovery
The procedure begins with identifying the location of the muscle spasm. A small needle is then used to inject medication into the targeted area. The injection typically contains a local anesthetic to minimize discomfort and enhance muscle relaxation. Patients may experience mild numbness around the injection site, but can usually return to normal activities right away.
Trigger point injections provide short-term pain relief, making them suitable for patients with severe pain who need rapid symptom improvement. For best results, the treatment is often combined with self-care and additional physical therapy.
Source:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30589660/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S277259442200067X
Written by Dr.Matee Phakawech
Medical License Number 41601