Trigger Point Injections: A Simple Solution for Muscle Pain

Muscle pain can be frustrating, persistent, and limiting—especially when it interferes with your ability to work, sleep, or stay active. If you’ve ever felt a tight “knot” in your neck, shoulders, or back, you may be experiencing trigger points.

At Deseret Rock Pain Specialists, trigger point injections are a simple, effective treatment option that can provide meaningful relief for many patients.

What Are Trigger Points?

Trigger points are tight, sensitive areas within a muscle—often described as “knots.” These areas can:

• Cause localized pain
• Refer pain to other areas (for example, neck muscles causing headaches)
• Limit movement and flexibility

They commonly develop from:

• Muscle overuse
• Poor posture
• Injury
• Stress and tension

What Is a Trigger Point Injection?

A trigger point injection is a quick, in-office procedure designed to relax these tight muscle bands and reduce pain.

During the procedure:

• A small needle is inserted directly into the trigger point
• A local anesthetic (sometimes with a small amount of steroid) is injected
• The muscle is allowed to relax and reset

The entire process typically takes just a few minutes.

What Conditions Can It Help?

Trigger point injections are commonly used for:

• Neck and shoulder pain
• Upper and lower back pain
• Myofascial pain syndrome
• Tension headaches
• Muscle pain after injury or strain

What Does It Feel Like?

Most patients tolerate the procedure very well.

You may feel:

• A brief pinch with the needle
• A twitch or cramp sensation as the muscle releases
• Mild soreness afterward (similar to a workout)

How Quickly Does It Work?

Relief can happen:

• Immediately (from the local anesthetic)
• Or gradually over a few days

For some patients, a series of injections may provide the best results.

Benefits of Trigger Point Injections

• Quick, in-office procedure
• Minimal downtime
• Can significantly reduce muscle pain
• Improves range of motion and function
• May reduce the need for medications

Are There Any Risks?

Trigger point injections are generally very safe when performed by experienced providers.

Possible side effects include:

• Temporary soreness
• Minor bruising
• Rare risk of infection or bleeding

Serious complications are extremely uncommon.

What Should I Expect After the Procedure?

After your injection:

• You can usually return to normal activities the same day
• Mild soreness may last 1–2 days
• Stretching and physical therapy may enhance results

Is This Right for You?

If you’re dealing with persistent muscle tightness or pain that hasn’t improved with rest, medications, or therapy, trigger point injections may be a helpful next step.

Get Relief from Muscle Pain

At Deseret Rock Pain Specialists, we focus on precise, evidence-based treatments to help you feel better and move better.

📍 3665 S. 8400 W. Ste 200, Magna, UT 84044 📞 801-961-4010 🌐 deseretrock.com

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn if trigger point injections are right for you.