Trigger point injections can help you get moving again.
What is a Trigger Point?
A trigger point is an area of palpable tenderness in the muscle. There can be one or several trigger points in the muscle and can be found anywhere in the body. Trigger points can be a nagging source of chronic pain. The pain might be localized or widespread.
How is a trigger point injection performed?
Trigger Point Injections can be done right in the office in the comfort of a recliner or a chair. The area of concern is identified and sterilely cleaned. Commonly, the trigger point is injected with a mixture of a long-acting corticosteroid and a local anesthetic.
What should I expect after my injection?
The local anesthetic might start helping the day of the injection. The corticosteroid might take up to 5 days to begin to take effect. If you have some injection site pain you can use ice to help reduce the pain. Do not use heat until 24 hours after the injection.
How often should I have the injection repeated?
Our goal in performing the injection is that you get long lasting relief and restoration of your prior function. In general, a trigger point injection can be repeated every 3 months.
Are there things I should look for after having this procedure?
Of course, you may call our office with any questions you might have. However, there are certain “red flag” warnings that you should call us regarding, or if after hours you should go to your nearest ER. These would include severe or worsening pain, fever over 101 degrees, new or worsening weakness, or injection site redness or drainage.
Dr. Stephen Irwin is a pain management specialist with an office centrally located to serve Rogers, Bentonville, Bella Vista, Springdale and Fayetteville, Arkansas. NWA Interventional Pain works to treat your chronic pain and offers caring solutions to help get you back to a pain-free life.