This Blog Features…
- Trigger points are small, contracted knots in muscle that may lead to something called “referred pain.”
- Although the cause of trigger points is relatively unknown, physicians have speculated they come from muscle injury, repetitive motion or stress.
- The pain management physicians at The Pain Center of Arizona provide treatment options for those suffering from trigger points and referred pain.
We’re featuring quick, easy-to-digest information on all things trigger points and referred pain. Continue reading to learn more about treatments for trigger points and referred pain.
What Are Trigger Points?
Trigger points are palpable nodes in muscle that are common in the upper back and shoulders. Chronic musculoskeletal disorders may lead to the development of trigger points in other areas of the body as well. Myofascial trigger points are similar, but can occur in softer tissues like skin, ligaments, tendons and scar tissue.
What Is Referred Pain?
Referred pain is pain that is felt in an area other then where it is caused. Unfortunately, trigger points can cause referred pain, which may feel dull or achy in areas close to the trigger point. In addition to referred pain, trigger points may cause numbness, tingling, weakness, or false heart pain.
How are Trigger Points Treated?
Trigger points can be treated with a variety of methods depending on how mild, moderate or severe the condition is. The pain management physicians at The Pain Center of Arizona treat trigger points and referred pain with trigger point injections. These unique injections contain a mixture of anesthetics or cortisone medication to deactivate the trigger point and provide subsequent relief. Learn more about trigger point injections by visiting our treatments page.
Other techniques like massage therapy, dry needling and more may help with trigger point pain. Talk to the team at TPC to discuss treatment options for trigger points and referred pain.
