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Trigger Point Injection

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 1, 2023.

A trigger point injection is used to relax a muscle knot. This helps relieve pain.

DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US), or have someone call if:

  • Your mouth and throat are swollen.
  • You are wheezing or have trouble breathing.
  • You have chest pain or your heart is beating faster than usual.
  • You feel like you are going to faint.

When should I seek immediate care?

  • Your face is red or swollen.
  • You have hives that spread over your body.
  • You feel weak or dizzy.

Call your doctor or pain specialist if:

  • You have a fever within 1 week of the injection.
  • You have redness or swelling within 1 week of the injection.
  • You have new or worsening pain near the injection site.
  • You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Self-care:

  • Stay active after you have trigger point injections. Gently move your joints through their full range of motion during the first week. Avoid strenuous activity for 3 or 4 days.
  • Do regular stretches of the trigger point muscle. Place gentle pressure on the trigger point, and then stretch the muscle. Ask your healthcare provider for more information about how to stretch and apply pressure.
  • Apply ice to the injection site. Use an ice pack, or put ice in a plastic bag. Cover the bag with a towel before you apply it. Apply ice for 15 to 20 minutes every hour, or as directed.
  • Apply heat to trigger point sites. Heat can help relax muscles and relieve trigger point pain. Use a heat pack or a heating pad set on low. Apply heat for 15 minutes every hour, or as directed.

Follow up with your doctor or pain specialist as directed:

Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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