Dr. Wei Lan is a Consultant Pain Physician
Trigger Point Injection
What is a Trigger Point?
Trigger points are localized areas of muscle spasm and inflammation. Trigger points can occur in various regions of the body. Common sites for trigger points include the rhomboid and trapezius muscles (which are located in the upper back and shoulder regions) as well as the lower back.
What is a Trigger Point Injection?
A trigger point injection is a minimally invasive procedure that involves an injection of medication directly into the trigger point that helps to provide pain relief. The goal of the treatment is to inactivate the trigger point, thereby reducing pain. The injections may contain a muscle relaxant (Botox) or a mixture of steroid and local anaesthetic.
Can anyone have a Trigger Point Injection?
If you have an infection, burn or open wound of any kind, have recently had surgery or the flu vaccine or have very high blood sugars or blood pressure, your procedure may need to be rescheduled. If you are on blood thinners of any kind you must discuss this with the Pain Doctor, well in advance of your procedure date. If you are pregnant, you also need to inform the Pain Doctor as it may mean certain medications are not suitable for you.
What can I expect after a Trigger Point Injection?
Many people will have noticeable improvements in symptoms after a Trigger Point Injection. The reduction in pain and inflammation should, hopefully, provide a window for some rehabilitation work such as physiotherapy and exercise, which could further improve symptoms.
If the injections do work, it will take 7 to 10 days for you to feel the effect. Effects can last for weeks or months or sometimes years. Injections can be repeated but do need to be spaced out as otherwise, you run into the risk of developing side effects from the steroids.
Are there side effects/complications?
The most common side effect of a Trigger Point Injection is site tenderness for a number of days after the procedure. Other side effects are uncommon, but include infection, bleeding or allergic reaction.
When the pain is improved and with the approval of your doctor, we very much encourage you to start regular exercise and activities as this will help with your overall pain management and mood. mood..– Remember, to do so in moderation and to increase activities and exercise gradually.
When can I resume normal activities/medications?
Activity:
Procedure Day: You are advised to rest on the day of your procedure.
Day2: Return to 25% to 50% of your usual activity level
Day 3: Return to 50% to 75% of your usual activity level.
After that, you can resume your normal activities as tolerated.
Medication:
Continue to take your usual pain medication until you notice some improvement in symptoms. Link in with your GP with regards to any medication changes.
Resume anti-coagulants the first day after the injection or follow your doctor’s specific advice.