Trigger Point Injections in Cincinnati - APSI Wellness
Learn about trigger point injections for muscle pain, tension, and myofascial pain syndrome at APSI Wellness in Cincinnati.
Trigger Point Injections — Trigger point injections deliver medication directly into tight, painful knots in muscles (trigger points) to release tension, reduce pain, and restore normal muscle function.
What Are Trigger Point Injections?
Trigger point injections (TPIs) are a simple and effective treatment for myofascial pain — pain that originates from tight bands or knots in muscles called trigger points. These hyperirritable spots can cause localized pain, referred pain (pain felt in a distant area), muscle stiffness, and limited range of motion.
During a trigger point injection, a small needle is inserted directly into the trigger point and a mixture of local anesthetic (and sometimes corticosteroid) is injected, causing the muscle to relax and the pain to subside.
How Do They Work?
Trigger points form when muscle fibers contract and cannot release. This sustained contraction reduces blood flow to the area, causes waste product accumulation, and sensitizes local nerves. The trigger point injection works through several mechanisms:
Mechanical disruption: The needle physically breaks up the taut muscle band
Local anesthetic: Interrupts the pain-spasm cycle
Improved blood flow: Releasing the trigger point restores normal circulation
Corticosteroid (when used): Reduces local inflammation
The characteristic "twitch response" — an involuntary muscle contraction when the trigger point is needled — indicates accurate targeting and is associated with better outcomes.
Conditions Treated
Myofascial pain syndrome — chronic muscle pain with identifiable trigger points
Tension headaches — from trigger points in the neck and shoulder muscles
Fibromyalgia — as part of a comprehensive treatment approach
Neck pain — from trapezius, levator scapulae, and cervical muscle trigger points
Back pain — from paraspinal, quadratus lumborum, and gluteal trigger points
Shoulder pain — from rotator cuff and scapular muscle trigger points
TMJ-related muscle pain — from masticatory muscle trigger points
What to Expect During the Procedure
Before: No special preparation needed. Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows access to the affected muscle group.
During: The physician locates the trigger point by palpation — feeling for the taut muscle band and tender nodule. The skin is cleaned, and a thin needle is inserted into the trigger point. You may feel a brief cramp or twitch response as the trigger point releases. The medication is injected. Multiple trigger points can be treated in one session. Each injection takes less than a minute.
After: Soreness in the injected muscle is common for 24-48 hours — similar to post-exercise muscle soreness. Applying heat and gentle stretching helps. Most patients notice significant improvement within 24-72 hours.
Benefits
Quick, in-office procedure (often under 10 minutes)
Immediate relief in many cases
Treats the direct source of muscle pain
Multiple trigger points can be addressed in one visit
Minimal recovery time
Can be combined with physical therapy for lasting results
Safe and well-tolerated
Risks and Side Effects
Post-injection muscle soreness (common, resolves in 24-48 hours)
Temporary bruising
Rare: infection, bleeding, nerve injury
Pneumothorax (extremely rare, only with chest wall trigger points)
Frequently Asked Questions
How many trigger point injections will I need?
Many patients experience significant relief after a single session. For chronic myofascial pain, a series of 2-4 sessions may be recommended, typically spaced 2-4 weeks apart. Combining injections with physical therapy and stretching improves long-term outcomes.
Can trigger points come back?
Yes. If the underlying cause of trigger point formation (posture, stress, repetitive strain) isn't addressed, trigger points can recur. Physical therapy, ergonomic changes, and regular stretching help prevent recurrence.
Is dry needling the same as trigger point injection?
They're similar but not identical. Dry needling uses a needle without medication, relying solely on mechanical disruption. Trigger point injections include local anesthetic and sometimes corticosteroid. Both can be effective.
Do trigger point injections hurt?
You'll feel a brief pinch from the needle and may experience a cramping sensation or twitch response when the trigger point is contacted. Most patients tolerate the procedure very well and find the brief discomfort worthwhile for the pain relief achieved.
Can trigger points cause headaches?
Yes. Trigger points in the neck, shoulders, and base of the skull are a common cause of tension-type headaches and can also trigger migraines. Treating these trigger points often significantly reduces headache frequency and severity.
APSI Wellness — Advanced Pain Solutions & Interventions
5405 DuPont Circle Suite A, Milford, OH 45150 | Phone: (513) 936-3050
https://apsiwellness.com/services/trigger-point-injections