Understanding Trigger Point Injections

Trigger point injections refer to the injection of numbing medication into areas of the body that have persistent pain due to ‘muscle knots’. These injections can be done almost anywhere on the body, but certain urinary conditions may benefit as well. Conditions that may benefit include:

  • Chronic Pelvic Pain (CPP)
  • Pelvic Floor Dysfunction (PFD)
  • Category III B Prostatitis/ Chronic Pelvic Pain (CP/CPPS)

Trigger Point Injection Process:

Trigger points can be the cause of sexual pain in women and ejaculatory pain in men. Trigger point injections involve the infiltration of muscles with an anesthetic solution, sometimes with steroids as anti-inflammatories, which is useful in identifying the exact location of the pain and simultaneously relieving the pain. The injection process is done in an office by the surgeon who locates the pain with direct touch and pressure.

Trigger Point Injection Candidates:

It is estimated that these specific urologic conditions may affect up to 40% of patients between the ages of 18 to 45 years old. Patients impacted may experience symptoms in the lower urinary tract, pelvic pain, and sexual problems. Sexual pain is found in up to 42% of women with CPP. Other studies found that muscle “contraction knots,” of the pelvic floor may be identified in as many as 85% of patients suffering from urological, colorectal, and gynecological pelvic pain syndromes. Often patients with PFD and CP/CPPS will have trigger points that can give rise to pain.

Benefits of Trigger Point Injections:

The results of trigger point injections vary from patient to patient but often include a reduction of symptoms including:

  • Reduced hesitancy with urination
  • Decreased nighttime awakenings to urinate
  • Reduced constipation
  • Decreased pain during and after sex
  • Less ejaculatory pain in men

If you have any questions regarding trigger point injections, or if you think it may be right for you, our team of professionals are available to answer any questions to help you make an informed decision. We at Western Michigan Urological Associates want to work with you to find the best option for you and your family. Ask Your Primary Care Provider for a Referral.