Trigger Point Injections in Anchorage, AK

What are Trigger Points?

Myofascial trigger points are small areas of contracted tissue or “knots” in the thin wrapping over your muscle tissue. The contraction pulls on the connected muscle fibers, creating a tight band that you can often feel through your skin.

Trigger points feel like tiny, hard lumps ranging from smaller than the head of a pin to around the size of your thumbnail. Some people experience extreme tenderness or pain at the site of a trigger point.

Often, the trigger point “refers” pain to another area of your body. This potential for referred pain is why myofascial trigger points are believed to be the cause of many undiagnosed cases of musculoskeletal pain.

Trigger points can cause the following conditions:

Symptoms of tennis elbow
Headache
Lower back pain
Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome
Joint pain
Sensation of weakness
Limited range of motion

How Can Trigger Point Injections Help?

Trigger point injections work by relaxing the contracted myofascial tissue that’s forming the trigger point. Your Shape Up Center provider does the injections with a tiny needle that minimizes discomfort.

The formulation of the injections might include saline, a local anesthetic, or cortisone. When correctly delivered to the exact site of your trigger point, pain relief is immediate. In some cases, a second injection is needed to relax the contracted tissue.

Many people experience lasting pain relief after trigger point injections. Following your doctor’s guidance on stretching and proper exercise can help keep your muscles healthy and toned after trigger point therapy.

How Can I Extend Trigger Point Pain Relief at Home?

Once trigger point injections relieve your pain, you’ll want to extend those results at home. You can take several steps to take good care of your muscle tissue and avoid recurring trigger points.

Work to create these habits for optimal muscle health:

Perform relaxation techniques
Complete a short routine of daily stretches that include a full range of movement
Improve your posture while standing and sitting
Avoid repetitive tasks or postures that lead to muscle pain
Alter your workspace to improve ergonomics
Address dietary imbalances
Listen to your body and massage trigger point areas if they develop

If you’re tired of living with ongoing pain, schedule a consultation at Anchorage Spinal Care to learn about safe, effective treatment options.