Trigger Point Injections in St. Louis

A trigger point is a small, tightly contracted band within a muscle that will not relax. It is tender to direct pressure and characteristically refers pain elsewhere; a trigger point in the upper trapezius commonly refers into the head and neck. Left untreated, the surrounding muscle guards against the pain, which tightens the band further.

A fine needle is placed directly into the taut band and a small volume of local anesthetic is injected. The mechanical effect of the needle together with the anesthetic interrupts the spasm and pain cycle, allowing the muscle to lengthen. Ultrasound guidance is used where the target sits near a nerve, a blood vessel or the chest wall.

Myofascial pain of the neck, shoulders, upper back and lumbar paraspinal muscles responds best. Trigger point injections are also used alongside other treatments when muscular guarding is limiting progress in rehabilitation, including after a motor vehicle injury.

The injection takes only a few minutes and several points can be treated in a single visit. Soreness at the injection site for a day or two is normal. Patients are encouraged to stretch the treated muscle gently afterwards, since the aim is to restore length rather than simply numb the area.