Trigger Point Injections
A Precise Solution for Acute or Chronic Muscle Pain
If you have ever felt a "knot" in your neck, back, or glute that won’t go away, you are likely feeling a trigger point. When these knots become chronic, they can cause radiating pain and stiffness that limits your daily life.
A Trigger Point Injection (TPI) is a specialized interventional procedure designed to "reset" these hyper-irritable bands of muscle.
How It Works
During a TPI, Dr. Matthew Spiegel uses a very fine needle to deliver a small amount of a localized anesthetic solution directly into the trigger point.
- Direct Deactivation: The needle and solution work together to mechanically and chemically disrupt the muscle spasm.
- Increased Blood Flow: By forcing the muscle to relax, the injection allows oxygenated blood to flow back into the tissue, promoting natural healing.
- Pain Interruption: The localized anesthetic provides immediate relief, breaking the "pain-spasm-pain" cycle.
What to Expect
The procedure is performed in our UES office and typically takes less than 15 minutes. Most patients experience an immediate "release" of tension and a significant improvement in range of motion.
Because the treatment is minimally invasive, there is no downtime, allowing you to return to your schedule immediately.
Is TPI Right for You?
Trigger point injections are highly effective for patients suffering from:
Acute or chronic neck and shoulder tension
Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS)
Tension headaches or migraines
Upper back, lower back, or gluteal muscle spasms
Frequently Asked Questions About Trigger Point Injections
How long does a Trigger Point Injection last?
The duration of relief varies depending on the chronicity of the muscle knot. While the localized anesthetic provides immediate relief for several hours, the long-term goal is to "reset" the muscle. Many patients experience relief lasting from several weeks to several months. Results are often cumulative when paired with proper ergonomics or physical therapy.
Do Trigger Point Injections hurt?
Most patients describe the sensation as a quick pinch or a localized pressure. Because Dr. Spiegel uses extremely fine needles and a localized numbing agent, the discomfort is minimal and very brief. Many patients feel an instantaneous "twitch" or release as the knot deactivates, which is often followed by an immediate sense of relief.
How many injections will I need?
This depends on your specific condition. Some patients find complete resolution after a single session, while others with chronic Myofascial Pain Syndrome may benefit from a small series of injections spaced a few weeks apart to fully soften the muscle tissue.
Is there any downtime after the procedure?
There is no significant downtime. You can return to your normal daily activities immediately. We typically recommend avoiding heavy strenuous lifting for 24 hours to allow the muscle to remain in its relaxed state.
How is this different from a regular massage?
A massage works on the surface of the muscle. A Trigger Point Injection reaches the deep, internal fibers of the "knot" that manual pressure may not be able to reach. By using ultrasound guidance, Dr. Spiegel can treat the exact point of irritation that is physically shielded by other muscle layers.
Are Trigger Point Injections covered by insurance?
Yes, most major insurance plans cover Trigger Point Injections when they are medically necessary for the treatment of acute or chronic pain conditions. Our office can help verify your specific coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions About Trigger Point Injections
FAQ about Trigger Point Injections
How long does a Trigger Point Injection last?
The duration of relief varies depending on the chronicity of the muscle knot. While the localized anesthetic provides immediate relief for several hours, the long-term goal is to “reset” the muscle. Many patients experience relief lasting from several weeks to several months. Results are often cumulative when paired with proper ergonomics or physical therapy.
Do Trigger Point Injections hurt?
Most patients describe the sensation as a quick pinch or a localized pressure. Because Dr. Spiegel uses extremely fine needles and a localized numbing agent, the discomfort is minimal and very brief. Many patients feel an instantaneous “twitch” or release as the knot deactivates, which is often followed by an immediate sense of relief.
How many injections will I need?
This depends on your specific condition. Some patients find complete resolution after a single session, while others with chronic Myofascial Pain Syndrome may benefit from a small series of injections spaced a few weeks apart to fully soften the muscle tissue.
Is there any downtime after the procedure?
There is no significant downtime. You can return to your normal daily activities immediately. We typically recommend avoiding heavy strenuous lifting for 24 hours to allow the muscle to remain in its relaxed state.
How is this different from a regular massage?
A massage works on the surface of the muscle. A Trigger Point Injection reaches the deep, internal fibers of the “knot” that manual pressure may not be able to reach. By using ultrasound guidance, Dr. Spiegel can treat the exact point of irritation that is physically shielded by other muscle layers.
Are Trigger Point Injections covered by insurance?
Yes, most major insurance plans cover Trigger Point Injections when they are medically necessary for the treatment of acute or chronic pain conditions. Our office can help verify your specific coverage.