HOW DOES A TRIGGER POINT INJECTION ALLEVIATE MY PAIN?
A trigger point injection is an injection of medication into the affected areas of the muscle or the scar to relieve pain. A combination of two medications is used in this injection: a local anesthetic and a steroid. The local anesthetic provides immediate pain relief by numbing the area of injection. The numbing effect will typically wear off in 4-6 hours. The steroid provides pain relief by reducing the inflammation in the area of the trigger point. The steroid can take 2-10 days to begin working. A series of injections may be needed to provide the desired pain relief. POST-PROCEDURE INSTRUCTIONS ACTIVITY: – Do not drive or operate machinery on the day of your procedure. – Avoid strenuous activity or heavy lifting for the rest of the day. – Normal activity can be resumed on the following day, unless otherwise instructed by your doctor. DIET: – Resume your regular diet PATIENT COMFORT: – Take medications as prescribed by your doctor. – Do not drive, operate machinery, or drink alcohol
