Overview
Trigger points are small, tight knots within muscles that can cause localised pain and tenderness. In the chest wall, they often develop due to posture strain, overuse, coughing, stress or injury. These points can produce sharp or aching pain that worsens with movement, pressure or deep breathing.
A trigger point injection delivers medication directly into the affected muscle. The aim is to relax the tight fibres, reduce pain and restore more comfortable movement.
Who this treatment helps
A trigger point injection may be considered for people with:
- Localised muscular chest‑wall pain
- Tender knots or tight bands in the chest or upper back muscles
- Pain that worsens with pressure or movement
- Discomfort linked to posture strain or repetitive activity
- Persistent muscular pain despite stretching or physiotherapy
A consultation is required to confirm suitability and rule out other causes of chest pain.
What is a Trigger Point Injection?
A trigger point injection involves placing a small amount of local anaesthetic, sometimes combined with steroid, into the tight muscle area. The medication helps relax the muscle fibres and reduce pain signals.
The procedure is quick and typically well tolerated. Multiple trigger points can be treated in the same session if needed.
What to expect during the procedure
- Your consultant reviews the plan and answers any final questions.
- You lie comfortably on the procedure table.
- The skin over the affected muscle is cleaned.
- A fine needle is inserted into the trigger point.
- A small amount of medication is injected.
- You rest briefly before going home.
The procedure usually takes 5–10 minutes.
After the procedure
- Mild soreness or bruising at the injection site is common.
- Some people feel immediate relief, while others improve gradually over a few days.
- Gentle stretching may be recommended to support recovery.
- Normal activities can usually be resumed the same day.
Benefits
- May reduce muscular chest‑wall pain
- Helps release tight or overactive muscle fibres
- Can improve movement and breathing comfort
- May reduce reliance on medication
- Quick procedure with minimal downtime
Possible risks and side effects
Trigger point injections are generally safe when performed by experienced clinicians. Possible effects include:
- Temporary soreness or bruising
- Mild swelling
- Light‑headedness
- Rarely, infection or bleeding
Your consultant will discuss individual risks during your assessment.
When to consider other options
If symptoms persist or the injection provides limited benefit, your consultant may discuss:
- Costo‑chondral injections (if joint irritation is suspected)
- Thoracic spine treatments
- Medication review
- Physiotherapy or rehabilitation
- Combined approaches for complex chest‑wall pain
Safety note
Please inform your consultant if you take blood thinners, have allergies,