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Trigger Point Injections

Trigger Point Injections

Trigger point injections (TPI) are a procedure used to treat tense muscle areas known as trigger points. Essentially, they are knots which form when the muscles do not relax. During a TPI, a small needle, containing a sterile solution and a mild anesthetic is placed into the trigger point. The injection inactivates the trigger point relieving all pain caused by it. It helps to provide short-lived pain relief but from the introduction of this solution, it helps to flush away the acid, stimulating normal blood flow and a natural relaxation of the muscle.  In many cases, by the following day, spasms are significantly reduced or even gone. Aside from the benefits of fewer muscle aches and pains, it helps speed recovery when used in combination with physical therapy. With our physical medicine in Valley Stream, we are able to target your trigger points to help pain relief. If you are interested in receiving trigger point injections, schedule an appointment today.

What are TPIs used for?

TPIs treat muscle groups in the arms, legs, lower back, and neck. It can also be used to treat fibromyalgia and tension headaches.

With the patient lying on his or her stomach or sitting upright on the exam table, the trigger point is located by manual palpation, and the site is marked. The site is then cleaned with alcohol or a skin cleanser. The needle containing a minimal amount of medication is then inserted into the trigger point. It’s not the medication that actually makes the TPI effective. It’s the needle insertion into the “trigger zone” or the palpable nodule of lactic acid that accumulates in the muscle as a direct result of muscle fiber tears from either an acute injury or chronic muscular stress. An adhesive bandage may be applied after. Ice and heat may be used after if pain occurs after the TPI, but there is usually minimal discomfort. If you feel like you can benefit from trigger point injections, contact our physical medicine in Valley Stream today.

How frequently will TPIs be administered?

With one isolated trigger point, the trigger point usually resolves after one injection. In cases of fibromyalgia and myofascial pain syndrome, TPIs may be administered on a regular or as needed basis like monthly.

Trigger points don’t have to be a concern of yours anymore. With our physical medicine in Valley Stream and Oceanside, NY, we can target your trigger point(s) and relieve you from the pain you are suffering from. If you have any questions or would like to receive more information on trigger point injections, call our office today and our specialists can help you.

Schedule Your Consultation

Our services are available from Monday through Friday. To schedule an appointment, call our Oceanside, NY office at 516.764.7760 or our Valley Stream, NY office at 516.593.7990.