Trigger Point Injections in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Gilbert, and Mesa, AZ

Trigger point injections provide an effective solution for myofascial pain caused by “trigger points”—tight muscle knots that lead to significant discomfort. At our pain clinic, this minimally invasive procedure is performed in-office and takes only a few minutes. A pain doctor injects a combination of local anesthetic, saline, and sometimes corticosteroids directly into the muscle knot, deactivating the trigger point for immediate and long-term relief. Dr. Ahdev Kuppusamy, a leading pain specialist at The Pain Experts of Arizona, offers this treatment to patients seeking relief from chronic muscle pain in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Gilbert, and Mesa.

What Is a Trigger Point Injection?

A trigger point injection is a targeted treatment for pain caused by myofascial trigger points—hypersensitive muscle areas that generate persistent pain. These trigger points often develop from muscle overuse, injury, poor posture, or repetitive movements and are commonly found in the neck, shoulders, lower back, arms, and legs. By directly injecting a pain-relieving solution into these points, a pain doctor can help relax the muscle and significantly reduce discomfort.

Benefits of Trigger Point Injections

• Pain Relief: Effective for chronic muscle pain caused by trigger points.
• Minimal Risk: The procedure has few risks, with mild soreness at the injection site being the most common side effect.
• Quick Procedure: The entire treatment takes just a few minutes, and patients can return to daily activities immediately.
• Combination with Other Therapies: Works well alongside physical therapy, stretching, and other treatments to enhance overall pain management.

Who Are the Best Candidates for Trigger Point Injections?

Trigger point injections are ideal for patients experiencing persistent muscle pain that hasn’t responded to other treatments. You may benefit from this procedure if:

• You suffer from ongoing muscle pain that does not improve with rest, over-the-counter pain medications, or physical therapy.
• You have muscle tightness or tension in the neck, shoulders, or lower back.
• You experience frequent tension headaches or pain linked to fibromyalgia.

However, certain conditions may prevent you from receiving this treatment, such as:

• A hemorrhagic syndrome (bleeding disorder)
• Use of anticoagulants (blood thinners)
• Allergies to local anesthetics
• Psychiatric disturbances or other relevant medical conditions

How Do Trigger Point Injections Work?

The procedure is simple and efficient:

1. Preparation: You will either sit or lie down, depending on the location of the trigger point.
2. Identifying the Trigger Point: The pain specialist will locate and mark the trigger point by palpating the muscle.
3. Injection: A fine needle delivers a local anesthetic (sometimes with a corticosteroid) into the trigger point to relieve pain and relax the muscle.
4. Aftercare: Most patients resume normal activities immediately, though avoiding strenuous activity for a few days is recommended.

How Painful Are Trigger Point Injections?

While trigger points are tender, the pain during the injection is minimal. Some patients feel a brief sting or burning sensation when the needle enters the muscle, along with a possible muscle spasm or twitch. These sensations typically subside quickly, and most patients report feeling relief soon after the procedure.

Recovery After Trigger Point Injections

Most patients recover quickly and return to normal activities within a day or two. Mild soreness at the injection site is common but usually resolves within a few hours. Your pain specialist may recommend additional injections for sustained relief, but many patients notice significant improvement after just one treatment.

Risks and Side Effects

Although generally safe, trigger point injections do have some risks, including:

• Mild pain or soreness at the injection site
• Bruising
• Infection (extremely rare)
• Allergic reaction to the anesthetic
• Vascular (vein) injury

If you experience increased pain, swelling, fever, or other concerning symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

How Long Do Trigger Point Injections Last?

Relief typically begins within 24 to 72 hours after the procedure and can last from a few weeks to several months. If pain returns, additional injections may help prolong relief and improve muscle function.

When Should You Contact Your Healthcare Provider?

Reach out to your provider if you experience any of the following after the procedure:

• Persistent or worsening pain
• Redness, swelling, or warmth at the injection site
• Fever or chills, which may indicate an infection
• Other concerning symptoms that do not resolve within a few days

Schedule Your Consultation Today

Dr. Ahdev Kuppusamy, an experienced pain specialist at The Pain Experts of Arizona, offers trigger point injections as part of a comprehensive pain management plan. If chronic muscle pain has affected your daily life, a pain doctor at our pain clinic can provide the relief you need. Contact our offices in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Gilbert, and Mesa today or call us at 480-550-9393 to schedule a consultation and learn how this treatment can help you regain comfort and mobility.

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