Overview
Trigger points develop when muscle fibres remain contracted often due to strain poor posture overuse stress or prolonged guarding from underlying pain. These areas may feel tender and can refer pain to nearby regions.
Trigger point injections involve delivering medication directly into the affected muscle to help release tension reduce pain signalling and improve blood flow. The treatment is often used alongside physiotherapy or rehabilitation.
Who This Treatment Helps
Trigger point injections may be suitable for people with
• Localised muscle knots in the lower back or surrounding areas
• Myofascial pain worsened by movement or pressure
• Muscle tightness following injury strain or overuse
• Pain not improving with stretching massage or physiotherapy
• Referred pain linked to specific trigger points
• Muscle spasm limiting rehabilitation or daily activity
A consultation is required to confirm suitability.
What Is a Trigger Point Injection
A trigger point injection is a targeted procedure where a fine needle is inserted into a tight painful muscle band. A small amount of local anaesthetic with or without other medication is injected to help relax muscle fibres and reduce discomfort.
In some cases dry needling without medication may be used depending on the clinical assessment.
Trigger point injections address muscle based pain but do not treat underlying spinal structural conditions.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Your consultant identifies trigger points through examination
You are positioned comfortably
The skin is cleaned
A fine needle is inserted into the trigger point
Medication is injected
Multiple trigger points may be treated if needed
You are monitored briefly before leaving
The procedure is usually quick and well tolerated.
After the Procedure
It is normal to experience
• Mild soreness or bruising
• A feeling of looseness in the muscle
• Temporary fatigue in the treated area
Your consultant may advise
• Gentle stretching
• Avoiding strenuous activity for 24 hours
• Using heat if soreness occurs
• Continuing physiotherapy or strengthening exercises
Many patients notice immediate or gradual improvement.
Benefits
• Releases tight painful muscle knots
• Reduces local and referred pain
• Improves movement and flexibility
• Quick procedure with minimal downtime
• Supports rehabilitation and posture correction
• May reduce reliance on pain medication
Possible Risks and Side Effects
Possible effects include
• Temporary soreness or bruising
• Mild bleeding
• Light headedness
• Infection rare
• Allergic reaction uncommon
Serious complications are rare.
Safety Note
Please inform your consultant if you take blood thinning medication have allergies are pregnant or have an active infection. Avoid driving immediately after the procedure if you feel light headed.
Arrange a consultation to discuss whether trigger point injections may be appropriate for managing muscular low back pain.