At some point in our lives, we may experience pain in our joints and muscles. Most of the time, this inflammation heals with rest and time. However, some people experience pain consistently and more painfully. For some, it’s even a daily occurrence. In these cases, more serious measures must be taken to alleviate the pain. Trigger point injections have become a very popular form of therapy for pain management in Orange County.
What are Trigger Point Injections?
Trigger point injections are a procedure whereby a needle is inserted into an area of inflamed muscle to help alleviate pain. Oftentimes muscle tightness can build in an area of our body from overuse or intense exertion. This forms knots and causes severe pain. They may also affect the nerves around them, causing other issues to occur in other parts of the body, like a domino effect. It’s important to bring relief to the trigger point area so that the body can relax and resume its normal function instead of causing more problems to arise.
How Does it Work?
These injections are inserted by a health care professional. At the time of the procedure, the professional will insert a small needle into the trigger point area. This will cause it to relax. The effect is like popping a balloon and brings relief almost immediately. Sometimes the injection will contain a local anesthetic to provide added relief to the area as well. A patient may need several injections on their first treatment, and depending on the situation, may need to continue regular injection treatments to provide sustained relief.
Who is it for?
Trigger point injections are for those who experience chronic pain or intense pain that is not healing on its own or overtake their everyday life. Oftentimes, trigger point sections are for those who suffer from tension headaches and fibromyalgia. They are most commonly requested for muscles in the neck, legs, shoulders, joints, and lower back. However, it can help to relieve muscle tension in almost any area. Trigger point injections are also being used more frequently for people who experience TMJ syndrome.
The Perks of TPI
The plus side to trigger point injections is that they are minimally invasive and, though the patient may need several treatments, they provide immediate relief when performed. TPI’s also help patients be less dependent on medication. For some, medication is not an option — whether their bodies are unable to handle certain medications or they prefer a more holistic approach. Thus, TPI has become a great option to provide relief without the added chemicals to our body. In addition to providing pain relief and reducing inflammation, trigger point injections also improve mobility. When our muscles are tense, we aren’t able to function as best as we can. Providing relief to these problem areas helps us to relax and perform our normal tasks with more ease.
How Long Do Treatments Last?
While many patients do experience immediate relief, there may be some residual soreness for the next day or two. In some cases, you may not experience the full benefits until a week after the injection. Patients may also experience sustained relief for 3-6 months after the injection takes place. Every patient is different and your doctor will be able to guide you toward the right path in your healing journey.
If you suffer from chronic pain, pin-pointed muscle pain, or headaches, why not consider trigger point injections? At OC Pain, we help patients get back on their feet with TPI’s and help them take back control of their life without the pain. To start a virtual consultation and see if TPI is right for you, visit OC Pain’s website today.
