Trigger Point Injection
To help relax a tight bundle of muscles, we inject either a local anesthetic or a combination of a local anesthetic medication and a steroid medication.
Definition | Procedure | Complications | After the procedure | Call the doctor | Contact us
What is a trigger point injection?
A trigger point injection is an injection of medication into a tight bundle of muscles called trigger points. The physician is able to find these painful muscles during an exam.
Why do we do trigger point injections?
In some cases muscle tightness continues and does not respond to usual treatments such as ice / heat, physical therapy or muscle relaxants. To help relax the muscle, we inject either a local anesthetic (numbing medicine) or a combination of a local anesthetic medication and a steroid medication.
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What happens the day of the trigger point injection?
- The physician locates the trigger points.
- Your child's skin will be cleaned with alcohol and a small needle will be inserted into the trigger points.
- We usually inject 2-4 trigger points in a session. We will perform up to 10, but they can be painful, so we limit the number for your child's comfort.
It is very important that you tell the physician when the needle contacts the painful area as this is where they will inject the medicine. The discomfort will be very temporary.
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What are the complications of a trigger point injection?
There are several possible complications however the risk is extremely rare. These include, but are not limited to, mild skin irritation, mild bleeding and infection.
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What should we expect after the trigger point injection?
You may find that your child's pain gets worse initially. Your child's physician may order a small amount of pain medication for the first 2 days until the injected medication begins to work. This occurs because placing a needle into an irritated muscle causes more irritation. The pain should begin to decrease approximately 2 days after injection. Approximately 3 days after the injection, an advanced practice nurse will call to see how your child is doing. You can also call us for questions or concerns at 1-513-636-7768. Your child should not participate in any contact sports until advised by his/her doctor.
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When to call the doctor
Call your child's doctor if he/she develops fever and redness at the site on injection.
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For additional information on this or any Health Topic, please call the Family Resource Center, 513-636-7606, or your pediatrician.
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Written 4/07
