A healthcare provider will give you this injection. 2021 Nov;29(4):265-271. doi: 10.1177/2292550320969643. No laboratory test or imaging technique has been established for diagnosing trigger points.9 However, the use of ultrasonography, electromyography, thermography, and muscle biopsy has been studied. In this overview, the indications, contraindications, potential side effects, timing, proper technique, necessary materials, pharmaceuticals used and their actions, and post-procedure care of patients are presented. A needle with a smaller gauge may also be deflected away from a very taut muscular band, thus preventing penetration of the trigger point. Trigger Point Injections for Chronic Non-Malignant Musculoskeletal Pain The dose of anesthetic varies from 0.25 mL for a flexor tendon sheath (trigger finger) to 5 to 8 mL for larger joints. The patient should be placed in a comfortable or recumbent position to produce muscle relaxation. It's also available as an injectable solution or an intraocular solution given after surgery. For most injections, 1 percent lidocaine or 0.25 to 0.5 percent bupivacaine is mixed with a corticosteroid preparation. Examples of predisposing activities include holding a telephone receiver between the ear and shoulder to free arms; prolonged bending over a table; sitting in chairs with poor back support, improper height of arm rests or none at all; and moving boxes using improper body mechanics.11, Acute sports injuries caused by acute sprain or repetitive stress (e.g., pitcher's or tennis elbow, golf shoulder), surgical scars, and tissues under tension frequently found after spinal surgery and hip replacement may also predispose a patient to the development of trigger points.12, Patients who have trigger points often report regional, persistent pain that usually results in a decreased range of motion of the muscle in question. Outcomes of Corticosteroid Treatment for Trigger Finger by Stage - LWW pain, redness, or irritation at site where injected. Pressure is then applied to the injected area for two minutes to promote hemostasis.10 A simple adhesive bandage is usually adequate for skin coverage.