Chronic muscle or myofascial pain can interfere with work, exercise and even sleep, leaving you frustrated and searching for solutions. While stretching, massage or physiotherapy can help, some muscle knots persist despite these efforts.
For many patients, trigger point injections offer a targeted, minimally invasive way to relieve pain, reduce muscle tension and restore mobility. Continue reading as we look at how trigger point injections work, the conditions they treat most effectively and who may benefit from this treatment.
What Are Trigger Point Injections?
Trigger point injections are a minimally invasive treatment designed to target painful muscle knots, or trigger points. These small, tight areas within a muscle can cause localised pain or discomfort that sometimes radiates to other parts of the body, a phenomenon known as referred pain.
The injection usually contains a local anaesthetic, saline or corticosteroid. This combination helps relax the muscle, break the cycle of pain and spasm, and reduce inflammation. In most cases, trigger point injections are not used in isolation but form part of a wider, personalised pain management plan tailored by a qualified pain specialist.
Who May Benefit from Trigger Point Injections?
If you are struggling with ongoing muscle pain, trigger point injections may be an option. You may be a suitable candidate if:
- The muscle pain or stiffness has persisted for weeks or months despite rest and physiotherapy.
- You notice tender knots or tight bands within the muscles, commonly in the neck, shoulders or lower back.
- You have been diagnosed with, or are suspected of having, myofascial pain syndrome.
- Muscle spasms developed after an injury or as a result of repetitive strain or overuse.
Conditions Commonly Treated with Trigger Point Injections
Trigger point injections are most effective when painful muscle knots are a key contributor to ongoing discomfort. By delivering medication directly into the trigger point, the treatment helps relax tight muscle fibres, improve local blood flow and reduce pain signalling. This can allow the affected muscle to move more comfortably and support functional recovery. Trigger point injections are commonly used to help manage the following conditions:
- Myofascial Pain Syndrome: This condition involves persistent muscle pain caused by active trigger points. Injections help deactivate these sensitive areas, easing both local pain and discomfort that radiates to other parts of the body.
- Tension Headaches: Recurring tension headaches are often linked to tight muscles in the neck and upper shoulders. Treating trigger points in these areas can relieve muscle tension and may reduce the frequency and intensity of headaches.
- Fibromyalgia-Related Pain: While fibromyalgia causes widespread pain, trigger point injections may offer relief for localised muscle tenderness in selected individuals, particularly when specific trigger points are contributing to symptoms.
- Shoulder, Back or Neck Pain: Trigger points frequently develop in these areas due to poor posture, prolonged strain or stress. Injections help loosen tight muscles and can complement physiotherapy and posture correction efforts.
- Muscle Strain: Repetitive movements, overuse or sudden physical exertion can lead to muscle strain and trigger point formation. Injections may reduce pain, restore flexibility and support recovery, especially for active individuals.
Who May Not Be Suitable for Trigger Point Injections
While trigger point injections are generally safe, they may not be suitable for everyone. Certain medical conditions or circumstances can increase risks or reduce effectiveness. You may not be a candidate if you:
- Have an active infection at the injection site
- Are allergic to local anaesthetics or other components of the injection medication
- Have a bleeding disorder or are taking blood thinners (unless approved by your doctor)
- Are pregnant – suitability is assessed on a case-by-case basis
What to Expect During and After the Procedure
Trigger point injections are a simple outpatient treatment carried out by a pain management specialist, with the entire process designed to be quick and well-tolerated.
During the procedure, the doctor will first identify the trigger point by gently palpating the affected muscle. Once the tight area is located, the skin is cleansed with an antiseptic solution before a small, fine needle is inserted to deliver the medication directly into the muscle knot. You may notice a brief sensation of pressure or a short muscle twitch, though discomfort is usually minimal and short-lived.
After the injection, you may experience mild soreness or tenderness at the treatment site, similar to the feeling after a deep muscle massage. This usually subsides within a day or two. Applying ice can help ease any discomfort, and it is advisable to avoid strenuous activity for a short period. Pain relief may be felt immediately or may develop gradually over the next few days as the muscle relaxes and inflammation reduces.
For best results, trigger point injections are often combined with complementary treatments such as physiotherapy or gentle stretching, helping to support longer-lasting pain relief and improved muscle function.
Take Control of Your Muscle Pain with Dr Thor Timothy
Ongoing muscle pain can be both physically draining and frustrating, particularly when it persists despite conservative care. For selected patients, trigger point injections offer a targeted option when symptoms are driven by ongoing muscle tension. A consultation with a pain specialist helps ensure that treatment is appropriate, safe and tailored to your individual needs.
If you are seeking a comprehensive approach to pain management, get in touch with our clinic for a personalised consultation. Dr Thor Timothy is an experienced pain specialist with a focus on targeted, evidence-based treatments for muscle and myofascial pain. He will assess your condition, explain the available treatment options and advise whether trigger point injections are suitable for you.
Frequently Asked Questions on Trigger Point Injections
Are trigger point injections painful?
Most patients describe only mild, brief discomfort during the injection, similar to a quick pinch or pressure sensation. The local anaesthetic helps reduce pain during the procedure, and any post-injection soreness is usually minimal and short-lived.
How long do trigger point injections last?
The duration of pain relief varies from person to person. Some patients notice improvement for several weeks or even months, while others may require repeat sessions for longer-term benefit. Your pain specialist will tailor the treatment plan based on your symptoms, response and overall condition.
Are there any side effects for trigger point injections?
Side effects are generally mild and may include soreness, temporary bruising or slight swelling at the injection site. Serious complications, such as infection, allergic reactions or nerve issues, are rare when the procedure is performed by an experienced pain specialist.
Can I go back to work after the injection?
Most patients are able to resume work and normal daily activities immediately after the procedure. However, you may be advised to avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for a day or two to allow the treated muscle to settle.
- Who performs trigger point injections in Singapore?
Trigger point injections are performed by trained pain management specialists with experience in diagnosing and treating muscle-related pain. Dr Thor Timothy is a pain specialist who regularly performs trigger point injections as part of a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to pain management, ensuring accurate assessment and safe, effective treatment.
