Trigger Point Injections

Myofascial pain syndrome is a chronic pain condition that affects the muscles and surrounding connective tissue, often resulting in deep, aching discomfort that worsens with movement or stress. It occurs when a muscle has been overused or injured, leading to the formation of tight, tender bands of muscle fibers known as trigger points. These trigger points can cause localized pain or radiating discomfort to other areas of the body, a phenomenon known as “referred pain.” Commonly affected regions include the neck, shoulders, upper back, and lower back, although trigger points can develop in nearly any muscle group.

Trigger point pain often feels like a persistent knot that doesn’t seem to release, even with stretching or massage. It can be brought on or worsened by poor posture, repetitive activities, stress, or underlying conditions that increase muscle tension. Left untreated, myofascial pain can limit mobility, interfere with sleep, and significantly impact daily life.

A trigger point injection is a minimally invasive procedure designed to relieve muscle pain and break the pain cycle caused by these irritated muscle fibers. During the procedure, a small amount of local anesthetic—sometimes combined with a corticosteroid—is carefully injected directly into the affected trigger point. This helps relax the muscle, reduce inflammation, and improve blood flow to the area, allowing the muscle fibers to return to a normal, healthy state. Some patients experience immediate relief, while others notice improvement over several days as the muscle relaxes and inflammation decreases.

Trigger point injections can be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that may include physical therapy, massage, heat or ultrasound therapy, and stretching exercises to restore flexibility and prevent recurrence. In addition, certain medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), muscle relaxants, or antidepressants may be prescribed to support long-term pain control and improve muscle function.

At Origins Spine and Joint Physicians, our team takes a personalized approach to treating myofascial pain, targeting the specific muscles involved and tailoring therapy to each patient’s needs. By addressing both the immediate source of pain and the underlying muscular imbalance, we help patients experience lasting relief, improved movement, and a better quality of life.