Trigger point injections are established pain relief treatments. They are generally simple, effective, and low-risk. Related procedures, called steroid joint injections, are also widely recommended as pain management options. Both options frequently provide relief to people suffering from chronic pain, sports injuries, or injuries from auto accidents, they are prescribed under different circumstances. Here are some frequently asked questions about the trigger point injection technique.

How Long Does a TPI Take to Work?

The speed of relief after an injection depends on many factors — your condition and the exact medicines used in the treatment, for example. Some people experience reduced pain immediately. Steroid injections may take anywhere from a day to a week to reach their maximum potency.

What Medicines Do Trigger Point Injections Use?

There are different types of medicines for TPIs. At PhysMed, we use a combination of Sarapin and Marcaine for our Trigger Point Injections. Sarapin is a natural solution extracted from Sarraceniaceae and used as an alternative to steroids or cortisone injections. The end goal of these procedures is to soothe and relax painful muscles, and we find steroids and cortisone are not necessary in most cases to achieve this.

If you are concerned about sensitivity, rest assured that you would be prompted to talk about allergies. Nevertheless, please ensure that your health care professional knows this information. It could be an important consideration when choosing your injection.

Are There Risks or Side Effects of TPIs?

There are very few likely side effects from this treatment. However, you may feel a short period of soreness. For injections in your arms or legs, your doctor might recommend that you refrain from driving or other types of physical activity for a short time.

Other side effects might include bleeding around the injection or infection. These are both quite rare.

Do TPIs Make You Gain Weight?

Weight gain is not a likely side effect of TPIs. The confusion is based on two main misconceptions.

First, some painkillers have a chance to cause weight gain. Injections do not have the same properties. In fact, TPIs are sometimes offered as an alternative to these pain medications for this very reason. Second, some trigger point injection treatments — although not those used at PhysMed — contain small amounts of steroids. These compounds are known to cause weight gain when taken regularly for a long time in high doses. TPIs do not contain sufficient quantities of steroids to pose the same risk. Additionally, the intake method is different.

How Do Trigger Point Injections Work?

Your doctor should let you know exactly what to expect from TPIs. The process is generally simple and fast. You will probably not require sedation — the majority of adults receive a local anesthetic at the injection site. After injections are complete, your therapist might provide you with some easy exercises to maximize the benefit of your shots. Generally, people who complete the treatment see positive results within 24 to 72 hours.

How Long Do Injection Treatment Plans Last?

Your plan would be based on your condition and your response to treatment. Typically, a concentrated treatment period is followed by less frequent injections on a maintenance schedule until the pain subsides.

Thank you for your interest in this treatment. Please remember that this is only a brief introduction. To get a personalized consultation, please contact our center today by calling (941) 921-4884.