Trigger Point Injection Therapy at Deep Relief is a powerful, targeted solution for chronic muscle pain. Administered by trained medical professionals, this treatment involves the precise injection of a small amount of anesthetic (and sometimes an anti-inflammatory) directly into painful “knots” or trigger points within your muscles. These injections help deactivate the trigger points, providing immediate and lasting relief from localized pain and stiffness.
If stress, injury, or repetitive strain has left your muscles locked in discomfort, Trigger Point Injection Therapy can help restore natural movement, reduce inflammation, and improve overall function—so you can feel more relaxed, mobile, and pain-free.
Trigger point injections (TPIs) are a medical treatment designed to relieve pain and tension caused by tight, sensitive knots in the muscles known as trigger points. These knots can develop from stress, injury, or chronic overuse and often cause both localized pain and referred pain in other areas of the body.
During the procedure, a healthcare provider inserts a small needle directly into the affected muscle. The injection typically contains a local anesthetic, such as lidocaine, and sometimes a corticosteroid to reduce inflammation.
This combination helps relax the muscle, relieve pain, and restore mobility. In some cases, a technique called dry needling is used, where the needle alone is sufficient to release the tension without medication. Trigger point injections are commonly used to treat conditions like chronic muscle pain, tension headaches, fibromyalgia, myofascial pain syndrome, and neck or back pain.
As part of an integrative functional medicine approach, TPIs can be combined with other therapies—such as massage, physical therapy, or chiropractic care—for a more comprehensive and lasting recovery.
Trigger point injections (TPIs) are a treatment option used to relieve pain and improve function in muscles affected by trigger points—tight, painful knots of muscle that can irritate surrounding nerves and cause referred pain.
Trigger point injections not only relieve physical pain but also contribute to improved mental health. Chronic discomfort and muscle tension can significantly impact mood and overall well-being. By alleviating pain and promoting muscle relaxation, trigger point injections help support a more balanced, positive mental state.
This treatment targets deep, stubborn muscle knots—reducing physical stress and encouraging relaxation, which in turn fosters both physical and emotional well-being.
Trigger point therapy, including Trigger Point Injections (TPIs), may be right for you if you’re experiencing:
Chronic muscle pain or tightness
Localized “knots” or areas of tenderness that don’t improve with stretching or massage
Pain that radiates or refers to other areas (e.g., headaches from neck tension)
Reduced range of motion due to muscle stiffness
Pain that returns quickly after other treatments like physical therapy, massage, or medication
Have been diagnosed with myofascial pain syndrome
Experience tension-type headaches, back pain, neck pain, or muscle spasms
Want non-surgical, minimally invasive pain relief
Prefer to limit reliance on oral medications like NSAIDs or opioids
Trigger point therapy—especially trigger point injections—can cause some temporary discomfort, but most people tolerate the procedure very well.
During the Injection:
You may feel a quick pinch from the needle and a brief “twitch” or cramp as the needle hits the tight muscle knot. This is actually a good sign—it means the trigger point is being properly targeted.
After the Injection:
Mild soreness or bruising at the injection site is common and usually lasts a day or two. Most people describe it as similar to post-workout muscle soreness.
Pain Relief:
Many patients feel immediate relief, especially if a local anesthetic (like lidocaine) is used. Others notice gradual improvement over a few days.
The duration of relief from Trigger Point Therapy—especially Trigger Point Injections (TPIs)—can vary depending on the individual, the underlying cause of the muscle pain, and the treatment plan. Here’s what to know:
Many people feel immediate relief after the injection, especially if a local anesthetic is used.
Relief can start within minutes to hours for some patients.
For others, pain relief may take a few days and last from several days to a few weeks.
When steroids are included in the injection, they may help reduce inflammation and prolong relief.
For chronic or recurring muscle pain, a series of injections combined with physical therapy, stretching, posture correction, or stress management may lead to longer-lasting results.
In some cases, recurrences are rare after a few effective treatments; in others, ongoing therapy may be needed.
Severity of the condition
Number of trigger points
Daily activities and posture
Stress and sleep quality
Use of other treatments (e.g., massage, exercise, physical therapy)
To extend the benefits of Trigger Point Injections:
Follow up with stretching or physical therapy
Address the underlying causes (e.g., poor posture, stress, overuse)
Maintain regular movement and hydration
