Our Services

Myofascial Pain and Trigger Points

Trigger Point Injections: Fast Relief for Chronic Muscle Pain

Stubborn muscle knots that refuse to go away with stretching, massage, or rest can be more than an annoyance — they can become a source of persistent, widespread pain that affects your ability to work, exercise, and enjoy life. Trigger point injections offer a direct, effective solution for these painful areas. At Southwest Pain Management, Dr. Philip Morgan and our team have helped patients across Southern California find relief from myofascial pain and trigger points for over three decades using this proven technique.

medications
The,Doctor,Makes,An,Injection

What Are Trigger Point Injections?

Trigger point injections are a minimally invasive procedure used to treat myofascial trigger points — tight, irritable knots that form in muscles when they fail to relax. These knots can be felt as small, hard lumps under the skin and are often tender to the touch. A myofascial trigger point injection involves inserting a small needle directly into the trigger point and injecting a local anesthetic, corticosteroid, or sometimes just using a dry needling technique. This muscle knot injection causes the knotted muscle fibers to relax and interrupts the pain cycle, providing both immediate and lasting relief.

Conditions and Symptoms Treated with Trigger Point Injections

Trigger point injections may be recommended for patients experiencing:

  • Myofascial pain syndrome— a chronic condition involving trigger points that refer pain to other areas of the body
  • Chronic neck pain and stiffness— particularly tension-related muscle pain
  • Upper and lower back muscle pain
  • Tension headaches and migraines— often triggered by muscle knots in the neck and shoulders
  • Shoulder pain— from trapezius or rotator cuff trigger points
  • Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain— muscle tension contributing to jaw pain
  • Fibromyalgia-related muscle pain
  • Repetitive strain injuries— from prolonged computer use, manual labor, or athletic activity

What Causes Myofascial Trigger Points?

Trigger points can develop from a variety of factors, including:

  • Poor posture, especially prolonged sitting or desk work
  • Muscle overuse or repetitive movements
  • Physical trauma such as falls or car accidents
  • Emotional stress and anxiety causing chronic muscle tension
  • Underlying conditions like arthritis or spinal disc problems
  • Inadequate sleep or recovery after physical activity

What to Expect During Trigger Point Therapy

A trigger point injection procedure is straightforward and typically takes only 10 to 15 minutes, depending on how many trigger points are being treated. You will be positioned comfortably, and Dr. Morgan will locate the trigger point by palpating (feeling) the muscle. Once identified, a fine needle is inserted directly into the knot. You may feel a brief twitch or cramping sensation as the trigger point releases — this is actually a positive sign that the treatment is working. The medication is then injected, and the needle is removed. Multiple trigger points can be treated in a single session.

Recovery and Results

Most patients notice improvement immediately or within a few days after trigger point injections. The treated area may feel sore for a day or two, similar to post-exercise muscle soreness. Applying ice or gentle stretching can help ease any residual discomfort. There is no significant downtime — most patients resume their regular activities the same day. For chronic myofascial pain, a series of trigger point therapy sessions may be recommended, often combined with physical therapy and stretching exercises for the best long-term outcomes.

Benefits of Trigger Point Injections

  • Rapid, targeted relief for stubborn muscle knots
  • Quick procedure with virtually no downtime
  • Can treat multiple trigger points in one visit
  • Reduces referred pain, including headaches and radiating muscle pain
  • Helps restore normal range of motion and flexibility
  • Can be combined with physical therapy for lasting improvement
  • Reduces reliance on oral pain medications

Stop Living with Muscle Pain — Call Southwest Pain Management

Chronic muscle pain and trigger points do not have to be your normal. Southwest Pain Management provides expert trigger point injections at our offices in Ventura, Woodland Hills, and Hawthorne, making it convenient for patients throughout the Los Angeles area and greater Southern California to get the care they deserve. Dr. Philip Morgan and our compassionate team will evaluate your condition, identify the underlying cause of your pain, and create a personalized treatment plan to get you moving comfortably again. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and experience the relief that trigger point injections can provide.

Schedule your appointment

Your Path to Wellness Starts Here

Serving Los Angeles and Ventura County areas. Your treatment plan will be tailored to your individual needs and goals.

We are dedicated to making your life better!

Book Appointment Now
Schedule your appointment

FAQs

How long do trigger point injections take?

The procedure typically takes just 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the number of trigger points treated. You can usually return to your normal activities immediately afterward.

Are trigger point injections painful?

You may feel a brief pinch when the needle enters the skin and a twitch or cramping sensation when the trigger point is reached. This twitch response is normal and indicates the treatment is working. Most patients find the discomfort very manageable.

How long does pain relief from trigger point injections last?

Many patients experience significant relief lasting several weeks to several months. For chronic myofascial pain, periodic treatments combined with physical therapy and stretching can extend relief and reduce the frequency of flare-ups.

What are the side effects of trigger point injections?

Side effects are minimal. You may experience temporary soreness, mild bruising, or slight numbness at the injection site. These effects typically resolve within one to two days. Serious side effects are very rare.

How much do trigger point injections cost?

The cost depends on your insurance plan and the number of trigger points treated. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, cover trigger point injections when medically necessary. Our staff will verify your benefits and discuss any costs before your visit.

What is the difference between trigger point injections and dry needling?

Both techniques use a needle inserted into the trigger point to release muscle tension. Trigger point injections include medication (typically a local anesthetic or corticosteroid), while dry needling uses only the needle without any medication. Dr. Morgan will recommend the approach best suited to your condition.

Can trigger point injections help with tension headaches?

Yes. Tension headaches are frequently caused by trigger points in the muscles of the neck, shoulders, and upper back. By releasing these trigger points, many patients experience a significant reduction in headache frequency and severity.