Treatments

A Minimally Invasive Solution for Chronic Muscle Knots and Pain
Living with ongoing muscle pain and tightness can make everyday tasks feel uncomfortable or even unbearable. Trigger point injections (TPIs) offer a non-surgical way to ease muscle pain, reduce tension, and improve mobility, especially for those dealing with conditions like fibromyalgia or myofascial pain syndrome.

At Midwest Vascular and Pain Specialists, we use advanced techniques like TPIs to help patients find fast, effective relief from muscle-related pain.

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What Are Trigger Point Injections?

Trigger point injections target small, tight areas of muscle which are also known as “knots” or trigger points that can form from overuse, stress, or injury. These injections deliver anesthetic or anti-inflammatory medication directly into those tense spots to help relax the muscle.

This treatment can:

• Ease muscle pain and stiffness
• Boost circulation in the affected area
• Improve movement and flexibility
• Help reduce pain that radiates from muscle knots

TPIs are especially helpful for people whose pain hasn’t improved with stretching, massage, or physical therapy.

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Who Can Benefit from Trigger Point Injections?

Trigger point injections are often used to treat:

• Myofascial pain syndrome - Ongoing muscle pain and tightness
• Fibromyalgia - Widespread discomfort, including tender trigger points
• Tension headaches or migraines - Often linked to tightness in the neck or shoulders
• Sports injuries - Overuse injuries that cause chronic soreness
• Back and neck pain - Muscle tightness that limits movement
• Postural strain or repetitive stress injuries - Pain caused by poor posture or repeated motions

If you’re dealing with muscle tension that won’t go away, even after stretching or therapy, TPIs might be a helpful next step.

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How Are Trigger Point Injections Performed?
This is a simple, outpatient procedure that takes about 10–15 minutes.

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Step 1: Locating the Trigger Points
The doctor examines the painful area to find tender or tight areas, then mark the injection site.

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Step 2: Injection
A fine needle is inserted into the knot, and a small dose of medication (often a local anesthetic or anti-inflammatory) is injected.

Step 3: Aftercare
You’ll rest for a few minutes, and then you can usually return to your day. Some people feel relief right away; others notice improvements over the next couple of days.

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Learn about other advanced pain management techniques.

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What to Expect After Trigger Point Injections?

How Long Does Pain Relief Last?
Relief typically lasts several weeks to months. Some people may need follow-up treatments if the pain returns.

Recovery Timeline

• Mild soreness at the injection site may occur, but usually fades within a day.
• Muscle tightness often improves within a few days.
• Combining TPIs with stretching or physical therapy helps results last longer.

Benefits of Trigger Point Injections

• Fast relief from muscle pain and tightness
• Minimally invasive with no downtime
• Better range of motion and flexibility
• Can be used with physical therapy for long-term results
• Helps with referred pain, such as headaches or lower back discomfort

Read about other interventional pain management techniques.

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Long-Term Pain Management with Trigger Point Injections

For ongoing relief, TPIs are often used alongside:

• Physical therapy to strengthen muscles and reduces recurrence
• Massage/stretching to keeps muscles loose and circulation healthy
• Posture and ergonomic adjustments to minimize muscle strain at work or home

If pain continues, other treatments like dry needling, nerve blocks, or radiofrequency ablation may be considered.

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Learn about radiofrequency ablation for chronic pain.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many injections will I need?
Many patients feel better after just one to three sessions. For chronic conditions, ongoing treatments might be recommended.

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Are trigger point injections painful?
They’re usually very tolerable. The needle is small, and a local anesthetic helps keep discomfort minimal.

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Are trigger point injections safe?

Yes, TPIs are low-risk, minimally invasive, and involve little to no downtime.

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Are trigger point injections covered by insurance?
Most insurance plans cover TPIs for chronic muscle pain. Our team can help you verify your benefits.

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Why Choose Midwest Vascular and Pain Specialists for Trigger Point Injections?
We offer expert, personalized care to help patients find lasting relief from muscle pain. Using modern imaging and a patient-first approach, we aim for precise, effective treatment with every injection.

• Specialists experienced in muscle and joint pain
• Accurate identification and targeting of trigger points
• Custom care plans based on your condition and goals