Overview
Trigger points are small, sensitive areas within a muscle that can feel tight, tender or rope-like. They often develop in the neck and shoulder region following whiplash injuries, prolonged desk work, stress, or repetitive strain. These knots can restrict movement, cause local pain and sometimes refer discomfort into the head, shoulders or upper back.
A trigger point injection involves placing a small amount of local anaesthetic—sometimes combined with other medications—directly into the affected muscle band. This aims to relax the muscle fibres, reduce pain and allow more effective stretching and rehabilitation.
Who this treatment helps
Trigger point injections may be considered for people with:
- Localised neck or shoulder muscle pain
- Tight, tender knots that do not release with massage or stretching
- Pain that worsens with movement or posture
- Whiplash-associated muscular tension
- Headaches linked to neck muscle tightness
- Restricted movement due to muscle spasm
A consultation is required to confirm suitability and rule out other causes of neck pain.
What is a Trigger Point Injection?
A trigger point injection is a minimally invasive procedure that targets specific muscle knots. The injection is placed directly into the tight band of muscle, causing it to relax. Local anaesthetic provides temporary numbing, while the mechanical effect of the needle can help release the knot.
Ultrasound guidance may be used in selected cases to improve accuracy, especially when deeper muscles are involved. The procedure is performed by a consultant pain specialist.
What to expect during the procedure
- Your consultant identifies the trigger point through examination and palpation.
- The skin is cleaned and the area is prepared.
- A fine needle is inserted into the trigger point.
- Local anaesthetic is injected, and the muscle may twitch briefly as it relaxes.
- The needle is removed and gentle pressure is applied.
- You may be advised to stretch the area afterwards.
- You can usually go home shortly after the procedure.
The procedure typically takes 5–10 minutes.
After the procedure
- Mild soreness or bruising at the injection site is common and usually settles within a day or two.
- Many people notice improved movement and reduced tightness shortly after treatment.
- Gentle stretching and heat may help maintain the benefits.
- Normal activities can usually be resumed the same day.
- Your consultant may recommend physiotherapy to support long-term improvement.
Benefits
- May reduce muscle tightness and spasm
- Can improve neck movement and posture
- May ease headaches linked to muscular tension
- Supports rehabilitation and physiotherapy
- Quick procedure with minimal downtime
- Can help confirm whether muscle tension is contributing to symptoms
Possible risks and side effects
Trigger point injections are generally safe. Possible effects include:
Temporary soreness or bruising
Mild bleeding at the injection site
Light-headedness
Rarely, infection
Very rare nerve irritation
Your consultant will discuss individual risks during your assessment.
When to consider other options
If symptoms persist or if muscle tension is not the primary cause of pain, your consultant may discuss:
- Cervical facet joint injections
- Cervical epidural steroid injections
- Posture-based physiotherapy
- Medication review
- Combined approaches for whiplash-related pain
Safety note
Please inform your consultant if you take blood thinners, have allergies, diabetes, active infection, are pregnant, or have had previous reactions to local anaesthetic. You may need someone to drive you home depending on how you feel after the procedure.
Arrange a consultation to discuss whether trigger point injections may be appropriate for you.