Trigger Point Injections for Pain Management
Trigger point injections (TPIs) are a type of injection used to treat muscle pain and stiffness. A trigger point is a tight band of muscle tissue that can be painful when pressed. These points can cause pain in other parts of the body and can be triggered by physical activity, stress, or other factors. TPIs involve injecting a small amount of anesthetic and/or a corticosteroid medication into the trigger point.
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Trigger Point Injections Treated Conditions
- Masseter- Masseter muscle dysfunction is a medical condition where the masseter muscle, a muscle located in the jaw, responsible for closing the jaw and grinding food during chewing, becomes weakened or dysfunctional, leading to pain and stiffness. Masseter muscle dysfunction can be caused by a variety of factors, including muscle imbalances, dental problems, stress, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
- Levator scapulae – The levator scapulae is a muscle located in the upper back and neck, originating from the transverse processes of the upper four cervical vertebrae and enters the medial border of the scapula (shoulder blade). The main function of the levator scapulae muscle is to elevate the scapula and rotate it upward. It also helps to stabilize the shoulder blade and neck. The levator scapulae muscle can become tight or overactive due to poor posture, stress, or muscle imbalances, and this can lead to pain and discomfort in the neck and upper back.
- Gluteus medius – The gluteus medius is a muscle located in the buttocks. It is one of three muscles that make up the gluteal group, along with the gluteus maximus and gluteus minimus. The gluteus medius originates from the outer surface of the ilium (a bone in the pelvis) and inserts into the greater trochanter (a bony projection on the upper femur). Weakness or dysfunction of the gluteus medius can lead to problems with balance and stability, as well as pain in the lower back and hips.
- Quadratus lumborum – The quadratus lumborum is a muscle located in the lower back. It originates from the iliac crest (a bony ridge on the pelvis) and inserts into the transverse processes of the lumbar vertebrae and the last rib. This muscle helps maintain good posture and stability when standing or moving. Weakness or dysfunction of the quadratus lumborum muscle can lead to lower back pain and problems with balance and stability.
- Trapezius – The trapezius is a large, triangular-shaped muscle located in the upper back. It extends from the base of the skull to the middle of the back, and from the spine to the shoulder blades. The main function of the trapezius muscle is to move the shoulder blades and stabilize the shoulder joint. The trapezius muscle can become tight due to stress, poor posture, or muscle imbalances, and this can lead to pain and discomfort in the neck, shoulders, and upper back.
- Sternocleidomastoid – The sternocleidomastoid (SCM) is a muscle located in the neck, originating from the sternum (breastbone) and the clavicle (collarbone) and inserts into the mastoid process (a bony projection behind the ear). The sternocleidomastoid muscle has two heads, one on each side of the neck, and they work in tandem to move the head and neck. This muscle can become tight or overactive due to stress, poor posture, or muscle imbalances, and this can lead to pain and discomfort in the neck and shoulders.
- Temporalis – The temporalis is a muscle located in the head and neck. It originates from the temporal bone (a bone in the skull) and inserts into the coronoid process (a bony projection on the mandible). The temporalis muscle is responsible for closing the jaw and grinding food during chewing. It also helps to stabilize the jaw and support the head. It can become tight as a result of stress, clenching or grinding the teeth (bruxism), or muscle imbalances, and this can lead to pain and discomfort in the head, neck, and jaw.
- Fibromyalgia – Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder characterized by musculoskeletal fatigue and pain, along with tenderness within certain areas of the body. It can be accompanied by other symptoms such as difficulty sleeping, difficulty with memory and concentration, and irritable bowel syndrome. The cause of fibromyalgia is unknown and there is no cure, but it can be managed with a combination of therapies, medications, injections, and lifestyle changes.
- Myofascial Pain Syndrome – Myofascial pain syndrome is a chronic pain disorder that involves the muscles and their surrounding fascia (a thin layer of connective tissue that surrounds and separates the muscles). It is caused by the development of trigger points, which are tight, painful knots that form within muscles. These trigger points can cause pain in the muscle itself, or other parts of the body when they are pressed or stimulated.
- Chronic Pain Syndrome – Chronic pain syndrome is a condition in which a person experiences persistent pain for more than three months. Chronic pain can be caused by a wide variety of conditions, including arthritis, cancer, nerve damage and more.
- Acute or Repetitive Injury – An acute injury is a sudden and severe injury that occurs as a result of a specific event, such as a fall or a car accident. It is usually characterized by sudden and severe pain, swelling, and bruising, and it may require immediate medical attention. Whereas a repetitive injury is one that occurs as a result of repetitive movements or strain on a particular part of the body. This type of injury is common in people who engage in activities that involve repetitive motions, such as athletes.
- Tension headaches – Tension headaches are the most common type of headache. They are typically characterized by a feeling of pressure or tightness around the forehead or the back of the neck. Tension headaches can be caused by a variety of factors, including stress, muscle tension, poor posture, and eyestrain.
Why Lonseth Interventional Pain Centers?
If you are looking for a top-rated and trusted clinic to provide Trigger Point Injections, look no further than Lonseth Interventional Pain Centers. Our New Orleans-based pain center is staffed by double board-certified physicians specializing in interventional pain management. We use cutting edge technology and procedures to ensure maximum patient comfort and effectiveness. Our goal is to provide the best possible care for our patients.
Trigger Point Injections FAQ
During a Trigger Point Injection, your doctor will locate the trigger point using palpation (feeling the muscle with their hands) and/or electromyography (measuring the electrical activity of the muscle). Once the trigger point is located, your doctor will clean the injection site and numb the area with a local anesthetic. They will then insert a thin needle into the trigger point and inject a small amount of a local anesthetic or a mixture of anesthetic and a corticosteroid medication. The injection can cause a brief sensation of pain or pressure, but most people do not find it to be particularly uncomfortable.
It is important to note that Trigger Point Injections are not a cure all for the underlying cause of trigger points, and they may not provide long-term relief. In some cases, the trigger points may return after the effects of the injection wear off. However, TPIs can often provide immediate relief and can be an effective way to manage muscle pain and discomfort.
Trigger Point Injections are a relatively common treatment option for muscle pain and discomfort caused by trigger points. They are often used when other treatment methods, such as stretching, strengthening exercises, and rest, have not provided sufficient relief. They may also be used in conjunction with other treatments, such as physical therapy or medication.
The length of time that trigger point injections last can vary from person to person. Some may experience relief from their symptoms for several weeks or even months after the injection, while others may find that the benefits of the injection only last for a few days. In general, trigger point injections are most effective when used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes other techniques such as physical therapy and stress management.
Trigger Point Injections are usually done with a local anesthetic to numb the area, so they should not be very painful. Some patients may feel a brief sting when the needle is inserted, but this should only last for a moment. After the injection, the area may feel sore for a few days. Overall, most people find trigger point injections to be a relatively low-pain treatment option.
After the procedure, you should avoid strenuous activities for the rest of the day, as this may cause the injected muscles to become sore. You should also avoid applying heat to the injection site for the first 24 hours, as this can increase swelling and discomfort. You may also be advised to avoid taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, for a few days after the injection, as these medications can interfere with the action of the local anesthetic. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions and take any prescribed medications as directed. If you have any concerns or questions about your treatment plan, be sure to discuss them with your doctor.