October in National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Trigger Point Injections
What are trigger points?
The term makes reference to points in skeletal muscles (usually in the belly of the muscle) which has unique cells which send signals to the brain regarding the condition of the muscle. The brain needs to have a continuous update on each muscle to identify its readiness or availability to function. For example, is the muscle already contracted fully? Or, it is under a partial load? In short, can it function as required?
When touched or prodded at this location, the muscle (and attached structures) may demonstrate a "jump." That is, this point triggers a reaction. Trigger points may also be called jump points.
A common technique for assessing the chronic condition called Fibromyalgia is to firmly press these trigger points or jump points and observe the reaction. If a certain number of points - above and below the waist and on both sides of the body - react, the patient may be diagnosed with the condition.
When a muscle spasms, such as when it is strained, the focus of the spasm may thought of as a trigger point.
How is a Trigger Point Injected?
Trigger Points are injected with a combination of numbing agent and analgesic (pain reliever). The combination is created based on your individual concerns, such as medication allergies. Addicitve drugs are NEVER included.
The injections are done using aseptic techniques, and a very small needle.
What Conditions May Benefit from Trigger Point Injections?
The most common trigger point conditions are muscle spasms that resist other treatments and Fibromyalgia.