How to Get a Trigger Point Injection

According to the Mayo Clinic, a trigger point is the result of a lump developing within the structure of a muscle. Your muscles normally contract and relax as you become active. But a trigger point will develop if a muscle becomes incapable of relaxing. Trigger points are often visible and may twitch to the touch. An injection can help treat the affected area. Without treatment, trigger points can contribute to the irritation of surrounding nerves, resulting in pain that can be felt in another area of your body.

Things You'll Need

• Injection
• Ice pack
• Moist hot cloth

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Instructions

• 1

  Gather information for your doctor.

  Gather any information on your medical history to provide for your physician. Bring any X-rays or films that have been taken of your affected area to help your physician discern the exact location of your pain.

• 2

  Have someone drive you.

  Prepare a mode of transportation for you on the day of your procedure if you will be receiving injections within your back. Numbing of the spine will prevent you from driving.

• 3

  Undergo an injection.

  Allow your physician to deliver an injection that will contain both an anesthetic (to help numb the site), and a corticosteroid. Expect a slight twitching of the injection site after the injection has been delivered.

• 4

  Anticipate numbness at the injection site. You may notice bruising, which is normal.

• 5

  Alternate heat and ice therapy for up to two days if you develop pain after the injection. Use a moist, hot cloth on the affected area, followed by an ice pack on the affected site.