Trigger Point Injections in Salem, Oregon

Persistent muscle pain can make everyday movement uncomfortable, At Deep Roots Family Medicine, Dr. Amelia Cohn, ND, offers trigger point injections using lidocaine for certain types of muscle pain.

Care begins with an evaluation to understand your symptoms and determine whether this treatment may be appropriate for you.

 

What Are Trigger Points?

Trigger points are sensitive spots within tight bands of muscle, often described as “knots.” They may hurt when pressed or cause referred pain—discomfort felt in another area of the body.

These areas of tension may develop alongside muscle overuse, repetitive movements, injuries, prolonged sitting, or stress-related muscle guarding.

How Do Trigger Point Injections Work?

Dr. Amelia places a small needle into an identified trigger point and injects a small amount of lidocaine, a local anesthetic. The goal is to reduce pain and sensitivity so the affected muscle can relax and move more comfortably.

Some patients notice relief shortly after treatment, while others improve gradually. The amount and duration of relief vary.

When Might Trigger Point Injections Help?

Trigger point injections may be considered when painful muscle trigger points contribute to:

  • Neck or shoulder pain

  • Upper-back or shoulder-blade discomfort

  • Lower-back or gluteal pain

  • Forearm or elbow-area pain

  • Certain tension-type headaches associated with muscular trigger points

  • Other localized muscle pain

These symptoms can have many causes. An evaluation helps determine whether trigger points are contributing to your discomfort and whether injections are an appropriate part of your care.

How Does Treatment Fit With Massage and Movement?

Trigger point injections may complement massage, physical therapy, stretching, and strengthening. Reducing muscle pain and sensitivity may make it easier to participate in these activities.

Depending on your needs, your care plan may include therapeutic massage, targeted exercises, ergonomic adjustments, stress management, or further evaluation of contributing conditions. The goal is to support more comfortable movement while addressing the factors that may be keeping your muscles tense.

What Can I Expect?

Dr. Amelia will review your symptoms and health history and examine the painful areas. If injections are appropriate, she will discuss the procedure, expected benefits, alternatives, and potential risks, with time for your questions.

During treatment, you may feel a brief pinch, pressure, or muscle twitch. The procedure is generally brief. You will be provided individualized instructions about activity and care afterward.

Temporary soreness, bruising, or numbness may occur. Less common risks include bleeding, infection, allergic reaction, fainting, nerve injury, scarring, and injury to nearby structures. Injections near the upper back or chest carry a rare risk of pneumothorax, or collapsed lung.

Your response to treatment is individual, and relief cannot be guaranteed. Dr. Amelia will review these considerations with you before treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Some patients notice relief shortly after treatment, while others experience gradual improvement. Results vary, and relief may be temporary.

  • The need for additional treatment depends on your symptoms, your response, and your overall care plan. Dr. Amelia will discuss whether further treatment is appropriate.

  • Coverage varies by plan and may depend on medical necessity and other requirements. Contact your insurer to confirm coverage for the procedure with the treating provider, along with any deductible, copay, or coinsurance. A recommendation for treatment does not guarantee coverage.

  • Yes. Dr. Amelia will evaluate your symptoms and determine whether identifiable trigger points are contributing to your pain before recommending injections.

Schedule an Evaluation

Dr. Amelia offers trigger point injection evaluations at our Salem clinic. If persistent muscle pain is affecting your comfort or movement, an evaluation can help you explore whether this treatment fits your needs.

Call 971-304-0711 to schedule an appointment.

 

 
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