Trigger Point Injection

What is a trigger point injection?

A trigger point injection is a simple, office-based procedure that relieves pain caused by tight, tender “knots” (trigger points) within skeletal muscles. These palpable, tense bands or nodules can cause local pain and referred pain patterns and are commonly seen with myofascial pain syndrome, headaches, neck pain, and low back pain. Injections typically contain either lidocaine (an anesthetic) or a steroid to numb the area and reduce inflammation.

Who might benefit?

Trigger point injections are appropriate for patients with:

• Persistent muscle knots that reproduce pain on palpation
• Myofascial pain syndrome
• Headache, neck, or low back pain linked to tight muscle bands
• Pain that has not fully responded to conservative care (stretching, activity modification, physical therapy)

How the injection works

Trigger points form when muscles remain contracted for long periods, causing a build-up of chemicals and local acids that produce pain. A physician locates the trigger point using palpation and the patient’s pain response, then injects either a numbing medicine (lidocaine) or a steroid to interrupt the pain cycle. The goal is to numb the pain and relax the muscle, restoring function and allowing rehab to be more effective.

What to expect during the procedure

• Check-in & history: A nurse reviews your medical history and answers questions.
• Positioning: You’ll lie on the treatment table, and the injection area will be exposed and cleaned.
• Injection: The clinician injects medication directly into the identified trigger point(s).
• Time: The procedure usually takes only a few minutes but may include several injections depending on the number of trigger points.

When will I feel relief & how long will it last?

• Lidocaine (anesthetic) injection: Relief is typically immediate; effects can last for several weeks to months.
• Steroid injection: Pain relief may take up to a week to begin, and effects can last weeks to months.

A small number of patients may not respond to this treatment. Your provider will discuss expectations based on your specific condition.

Recovery & aftercare

Recovery is prompt. Mild soreness at the injection site is common but usually resolves within 24 hours. Most patients resume normal activities the same day. Follow any discharge instructions and schedule follow-up if symptoms persist.

Procedure steps

1. The injection area is exposed and cleaned.
2. Medication is injected directly into the trigger point.

Why choose Iowa Ortho for trigger point injections?

• Orthopedic pain expertise: Clinicians skilled at identifying trigger points and tailoring injections to your needs.
• Integrated care: Injections are combined with physical therapy and rehabilitation to improve long-term outcomes.
• Convenient Central Iowa access: Multiple locations serving Des Moines and Central Iowa, and easy scheduling.

FAQs

What is a trigger point?

A trigger point is a palpable, tense band or nodule within a skeletal muscle that causes local or referred pain.

Are trigger point injections painful?

You may feel brief pressure or discomfort during the injection. Any soreness afterward typically resolves within 24 hours.

How many injections will I need?

Some patients get lasting relief after a single session; others may benefit from a series, depending on the number and severity of trigger points. Your provider will recommend a plan.

Schedule trigger point treatment

If muscle knots, headaches, or persistent neck or back pain are limiting your life, trigger point injections at Iowa Ortho may help you get back to the activities you love.

Call 515-247-8400 or request an appointment online to learn whether a trigger point injection is right for you.