When Is Trigger Point Injection Used?
TPI is used to treat many muscle groups, especially those in the arms, legs, lower back, and neck. Myofascial pain syndrome is a chronic pain condition in which there may be several trigger points limited to a particular area of the body. The pain and spasm associated with trigger points can lead to a vicious pain cycle in which pain causes more spasm and spasm causes more pain. Myofascial pain syndrome is not to be confused with fibromyalgia. Myofascial pain syndrome is a regional or localized pain syndrome in contrast to FMS (fibromyalgia syndrome) which is a widespread musculoskeletal pain syndrome. In addition, TPI can be used to treat fibromyalgia and tension headaches. What Happens During the Procedure? In the TPI procedure, a health care professional inserts a small needle into the patients trigger point. The injection typically contains a local anesthetic (numbing) medication, saline, and/or natural substances. The basis for a TPI is to relax the area of intense muscle spasm. B
