Intramuscular & Trigger Point Injections
Intramuscular (IM) Injections
In addition to oral medications, we at PMIC may also be able to offer you intramuscular (IM) injections for acute pain caused by trauma or injury, if recommended. An IM is a technique used to deliver a medication deep into the muscles, allowing the medication to be absorbed quickly.
Common medications used for IM: anti-inflammatory, steroid, pain reliever, and muscle relaxer.
Trigger Point Injections
This outpatient procedure is designed to reduce or relieve the pain of trigger points. These small, tender knots can form in muscles or in the fascia (the soft, stretchy connective tissue that surrounds muscles and organs). The trigger point procedure takes only a few minutes to complete.
Procedure
Preparation
In preparation for the procedure, the patient is positioned comfortably. The physician presses and pinches the skin to locate the trigger point. Once it has been identified, the physician cleanses the overlying skin. A topical anesthetic may be used to temporarily numb the skin.
Medication Injected
The physician carefully inserts a needle through the skin and into the trigger point. The physician injects an anesthetic mixture into the trigger point. This causes the trigger point to relax completely. After the first injection, the physician may adjust the needle’s position and give additional injections.
Post Procedure
When the injection is complete, the physician removes the needle. A small bandage will likely be placed over the injection site. The patient may be encouraged to stretch and move the muscle after injection.