Myofascial Trigger Point Injections
Offered in East Orange and Newark, NJ
Myofascial pain syndrome develops when a muscle’s trigger point, or most sensitive areas, become compressed or knotted. This creates tightening and pain in the muscle. It can also cause pain in other areas of the body as well, which is known as referred pain. For many patients, myofascial trigger point injections help to reduce the pain and discomfort caused by this condition. Learn more about this outpatient treatment option in Newark, New Jersey from Prospect Spine and Pain (PSP)’s Dr. Maria Cabodevilla-Conn, a fellowship-trained and board-certified Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Physician (PM&R).
About Trigger Points and Myofascial Pain Syndrome
A trigger point is the location where pain originates and radiates within the muscle and fascia, or the lining of sensitive connective tissue containing nerves, surrounding and holding the muscle in its place. Myofascial pain syndrome occurs generally after a patient’s muscle has been repetitively contracted, whether due to sports, stress-related tension, or on-the-job tasks. Though muscle tension pain is common, the symptoms of myofascial pain syndrome persist and worsen over time and include:
- Fatigue and/or trouble sleeping from being in pain
- Feeling a tender knot within a muscle or muscles
- Aching, deep pain affecting the muscle(s)
- Stiffness
- Muscle spasms
If you or a loved one is experiencing any of these symptoms that won’t dissipate and resist other forms of treatment, such as physical therapy, chiropractic medicine, acupuncture, and massage, schedule an appointment at Prospect Spine and Pain (PSP) right away.
How Myofascial Trigger Point Injections Can Help
In a brief and targeted procedure, a myofascial trigger point injection places a long-lasting anesthetic and, in some cases, an anti-inflammatory medication into the troublesome trigger point(s). This treatment option is designed to reduce pain, improve mobility, and relieve other symptoms. The duration of relief is variable but generally assists with alleviation and often resolution of the pain. These injections can be administered repeatedly as a part of a patient’s personalized pain management plan if deemed appropriate and successful.
What Should I Expect During a Myofascial Trigger Point Injection?
First, Dr. Maria Cabodevilla-Conn will identify the trigger point’s location and sterilize your skin. Once the needle is inserted into the trigger point, medicine will be injected and the doctor will use a technique to break up the muscle band to allow for subsequent healing of the muscles. Patients should experience only minimal discomfort throughout the procedure, including a mild stinging or burning sensation in the muscle.
The team at Prospect Spine and Pain (PSP) will then monitor your pain levels after the procedure. If necessary, Dr. Maria Cabodevilla-Conn may prescribe a course of repeat injections on a timeline that makes the most sense for your needs and goals.
Find Relief for Myofascial Pain in Newark, NJ
At Prospect Spine and Pain (PSP), Dr. Maria Cabodevilla-Conn is an experienced pain management and physiatry specialist who performs minimally invasive procedures to help reduce pain and improve function. Before surgery is considered, qualified patients may find success with non-invasive modalities such as myofascial trigger point injections.
To learn more about your options for treating your myofascial pain, contact us today to schedule a consultation in Newark, NJ. Dr. Maria Cabodevilla-Conn and our team will identify the root cause of your pain, conduct a thorough examination, and discuss the best ways to address your symptoms.
