TRIGGER POINTS

Trigger points are small, localized, tender, and knotty areas that develop in overused or injured muscles. Other causes of trigger points include surgical incisions, cumulative trauma, bruises and joint injuries. Occurring most often in the head, neck, shoulders and lower back, trigger points form when muscle fibers become knotted and are unable to contract normally. They also start to release breakdown products and inflammatory mediators that cause further pain.

Pain from trigger points can be localized, but may also be referred to other sites in the body in predictable patterns. Sometimes trigger points mimic pain similar to other conditions of the spine, such as a trigger point in the low back that exhibits the same symptoms as a herniated disc. Also, many patients with chronic myofascial pain may develop multiple trigger points with numerous areas of pain.

Treatment

Trigger point injections provide temporary relief from trigger point pain. Performed in a clinic setting under sterile conditions, a very small needle is used to inject anesthetic and sometimes steroid into the trigger point. Once the trigger point is numb, the muscle fibers relax, allowing the muscle to stretch.

If the cause of pain is from a trigger point, relief will be immediate. Pain relief varies, ranging from several hours to several days.

Early treatment of trigger points, engaging in stretching and strengthening exercises as well as employing proper body mechanics and posture can minimize symptoms. Aerobic activity can also speed recovery by increasing blood flow to the injured area.

These procedures can be slightly painful, so every effort will be made to ensure that you remain as comfortable as possible. Please feel free to discuss any questions with your doctor before undergoing treatment. The doctor will also discuss the risks, benefits and alternatives to this procedure.