How Long Do Trigger Point Injections Last
Understanding the Results of Trigger Point Injections
At Fidel Integrated Medical Solutions, we are committed to helping patients discover the most effective and minimally invasive treatments for their pain. That’s why we provide trigger point injections. Suitable for patients struggling with chronic muscle or joint pain, trigger point injections can be used as a stand-alone or combination treatment to help alleviate and manage pain.
What Are Trigger Point Injections?
Trigger point injections are targeted injections used to alleviate pain in the muscles by inactivating the trigger points with numbing or a combination of medications, including:
- Numbing medication, such as lidocaine
- A combination of steroids and numbing medication
- Corticosteroids or regular saline
- Botox injections
- Dry needling
Do Trigger Point Injections Work Immediately?
A trigger point injection appointment takes 15-30 minutes, depending on the number of injections needed. While each patient will respond differently to trigger point injections, many patients notice relief immediately following their injections. However, the results of trigger point injections may take 2-3 days to settle in.
Do Trigger Point Injections Hurt? 
If you’re wondering what to expect after trigger point injections and during treatment, you will be glad to know that these injections are not known to be painful and are typically well tolerated. You may experience a slight soreness at the injection site following treatment, and the treatment itself is similar to the feeling of having your blood drawn.
Trigger Point Injection After-Care
Following your trigger point injections, you will be asked to remain under observation for 30 minutes. Once the 30 minutes are over, you may return to your usual daily activities while refraining from heavy physical activity until your muscles have relaxed entirely. Once you are no longer sore, stretching to strengthen the muscles to promote optimal healing is important.
How Long Do Trigger Point Injections Last?
The duration a patient will experience relief following a trigger point injection will depend on several factors, including the severity and specific pain condition the patient suffers from and the combination of medications used in their trigger point injection. Results may last anywhere from a couple of days to months.
Side Effects of Trigger Point Injections
Trigger point injections’ side effects are low risk, with little or no adverse reactions or complications for most patients. Depending on the combination of medication used in your trigger point injection, possible side effects could develop surrounding the injection site and may include:
- Soreness or tenderness
- Bleeding
- Pooling blood under the skin (hematoma)
- Infection
- Skin dimpling
What Are Trigger Point Injections Used for?
Patients navigating chronic pain conditions involving the muscles and joints may use painkillers that no longer provide adequate or long-lasting relief. In these cases, trigger point injections can be used as an alternative. Common conditions treated with trigger point injections include:
- Myofascial pain
- Fibromyalgia
- Tension headaches
- Neck or back pain
- Shoulder pain
- Groin pain
How Many Trigger Point Injections Can I Receive?
You may receive several trigger point injections per appointment. However, trigger point injections that contain steroid medication should only be used to alleviate pain as a part of a medical treatment plan, and no more than six injections should be given. Injections without steroids can be given more frequently with fewer limitations.
How Often Can You Get Trigger Point Injections?
The frequency in which a patient should pursue trigger point injections will vary depending on their unique pain symptoms, condition, and the medications used in their trigger point injections. Only one trigger point injection is needed in mild cases, whereas more severe cases will require weekly, ongoing treatment.
Learn More About Trigger Point Injections Today
If you’re interested in alleviating symptoms of pain that have been holding you back from living your life, Fidel Integrated Medical Solutions is here to help with our trusted trigger point injections. Contact us today to discuss your treatment and schedule your appointment with our medical professionals.