Trigger Point Injection
Trigger Point Injection
Trigger points are the points located on the muscles and occur on the ground of taut bands. These points are painful and tender. Trigger points, popularly known as "gripes", reduce the quality of life in some cases. Discomfort, which is manifested by conditions such as stiffness, limitation of movement and pain, causes weakness. Trigger points are usually located at the midpoints of the muscle fibers. Among the causes of contractions in muscle fibers; conditions such as stress, trauma and psychological disorders. The inability of the muscles to fully relax leads to a lack of oxygen and the retention of harmful substances in the body. The trigger point injection method eliminates the factors that cause pain. The successful and reliable treatment method is welcomed by the patients.
Trigger points occur more in certain areas of the body. These are the neck, head, shoulder girdle, waist and back. Pain does not always occur in these areas. In some cases, it even remains for many years without any symptoms.
The pain is sometimes continuous and sometimes intermittent. It has effects such as pain in various parts of the body, weakness and limitation of movement. It restricts the patient's movements and causes a feeling of personal weakness. Purpose of treatment; relief of pain, elimination of limitation of movement and sufficient strength of the muscles. Trigger point injection is a very effective method. While applying this method, which is frequently used, the process is started by identifying the points that trigger pain.
The skin is cleansed. With the help of a needle, the trigger point is inserted into it and the drug is administered. The procedure, which takes a few seconds, gives an immediate result. The patient begins to observe the effects within a few minutes. The procedure can be performed several times, depending on the patient's condition. But it is applied on different days. In order for the success rate of treatment to increase, it may be necessary to perform various exercises. Approximately 30 minutes of waiting time is required after the trigger point injection is administered. If no complications are observed during this period, the patient is discharged.
Trigger point injection is administered when myofascial pain syndrome, fibromyalgia syndrome and tension headaches occur.
What is myofascial pain syndrome?
It is among the most common trigger point syndromes. Myofascial pain is caused by repetitive muscle activities and uneven posture. This discomfort is usually seen in the neck area. With the feeling of pain, muscle contraction is detected.
What is fibromyalgia syndrome?
It is a chronic pain syndrome. It is found in many parts of the body. Discomfort, manifested by excessive sensitivity in the muscles, begins in the neck and shoulder. It then continues to the back, arms, chest and legs. Pain can be seen constantly.
What are tension headaches?
Headache is a common ailment. It is thought to be caused by stress. Emotional states are claimed to produce contractions in many muscles. In this type of tension headache, sensitivity to pain occurs.
In some cases, trigger point infection cannot be applied.
These;
- pregnant women
- Those who have a suspicion of pregnancy,
- Those who have infection in the intervention area,
- It can be listed as those who have problems with blood clots.
The effect of the procedure is different for everyone. In some cases, the process needs to be repeated. The doctor's advice should be listened to before trigger point injection. Nothing should be eaten or drunk at least 4 hours before the application. If the patient has any chronic disease, this should be told to the doctor. In addition, information should be given about the drugs used. Some side effects may occur following trigger point injection. The main reason for the occurrence of discomfort is due to the drugs used. The patient may experience feelings such as fatigue and dizziness.