Overview
A trigger point injection is a targeted treatment used to relieve pain caused by tight muscle knots known as trigger points. These small sensitive areas within a muscle can feel tight, tender, or rope like when examined. They commonly develop in the neck and shoulder region following whiplash injury, prolonged desk work, repetitive strain, or stress related muscle tension.
Trigger points can restrict normal movement and cause local pain that may spread into the head, shoulders, or upper back. A trigger point injection places a small amount of local anaesthetic directly into the affected muscle band. The aim is to relax the muscle fibres, reduce pain, and allow more effective stretching and rehabilitation.
Who this treatment helps
Trigger point injection may be considered for people with:
- Localised neck or shoulder muscle pain
- Tight tender knots that do not improve with massage or stretching
- Pain that worsens with posture or movement
- Whiplash related muscular tension
- Headaches linked to neck muscle tightness
- Restricted neck movement caused by muscle spasm
A specialist consultation is needed to confirm that muscle related pain is the main cause of symptoms and that trigger point injection is appropriate.
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 contracted muscle fibres.
In selected cases ultrasound guidance may be used to improve accuracy, particularly when deeper muscles are involved. The procedure is performed by a consultant pain specialist in a controlled clinical environment.
What to expect during the procedure
Your consultant will identify the trigger point during examination before performing the injection.
- The trigger point is identified through examination and palpation
- The skin is cleaned and prepared
- A fine needle is inserted into the tight muscle band
- Local anaesthetic is injected into the trigger point
- The muscle may briefly twitch as it relaxes
- The needle is removed and gentle pressure is applied
- You may be advised to stretch the muscle afterwards
The procedure typically takes around 5 to 10 minutes and most patients can go home shortly afterwards.
After the procedure
- Mild soreness or bruising at the injection site is common and usually settles within one to two days
- 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 relieve 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 injection is generally safe when performed by experienced clinicians. However all procedures carry some risk.
- Temporary soreness or bruising at the injection site
- Mild bleeding
- Light headedness
- Infection which is rare
- Very rare nerve irritation
- No significant improvement in some cases
Your consultant will discuss the potential risks and expected benefits during your assessment.
When to consider other options
If symptoms persist or if muscle tension is not the main source of pain, other treatments may be considered. These may include cervical facet joint block, cervical epidural steroid injection, physiotherapy, posture based rehabilitation, or medication review depending on the underlying cause.
Safety note
Please inform your consultant if you take blood thinning medication, have allergies, diabetes, active infection, are pregnant, or have had previous reactions to local anaesthetic. Depending on the medications used you may need someone to drive you home after the procedure.
Arrange a consultation to discuss whether trigger point injection may be appropriate for your symptoms.
You can also explore our neck pain and whiplash treatments, view all pain treatments, or learn more about our pain management services.