Trigger-Point Injections

Medically reviewed by Dr. David L. Greenwald, MD, FAANS, FACS — dual board-certified spine surgeon & neurosurgeon. Last reviewed October 2026.

A trigger-point injection targets a “trigger point” — a tight, tender knot in a muscle that can cause local and referred pain. A small injection relaxes the knot and relieves the pain, often as part of treating muscle-driven back and neck pain.

Book a Consultation — (602) 566-9500

How a Trigger-Point Injection Works

What Is a Trigger-Point Injection?

A trigger point is a tight, hyper-irritable knot within a muscle that can be painful on its own and can refer pain to other areas. Trigger points are a common contributor to muscle-driven back and neck pain and to lingering pain after injuries like whiplash. A trigger-point injection delivers a small amount of numbing medication (sometimes with a steroid) directly into the knot to release it.

Conditions We Treat

Am I a Candidate?

Trigger-point injections are considered when a tight, tender muscle knot is contributing to your pain and hasn't released with therapy and conservative care. They're often combined with physical therapy for lasting benefit.

Book a Consultation — (602) 566-9500

Benefits & Risks

Life Beyond the Pain

How It Works & What to Expect

It's a brief in-office procedure — often just a few minutes. The muscle knot is located by feel, and a fine needle delivers the medication directly into it. You may feel a brief twitch or cramp as the knot releases. Several trigger points can be treated in one visit.

Recovery & Results

There's essentially no downtime — most patients return to normal activity immediately, sometimes with brief soreness at the site. Relief can be felt quickly, and pairing the injection with stretching and strengthening helps keep the trigger point from returning.

Why Choose Our Spine Specialists in Phoenix

Choosing the right spine specialist in Phoenix matters. At Desert Spine and Pain, your care is led by Dr. David L. Greenwald, MD, FAANS, FACS — a physician who is both a board-certified spine surgeon and a neurosurgeon. That dual expertise is rare, and it means one expert can guide you across the full spectrum of care — from a simple injection to complex surgery — and recommend what is genuinely best for you, whether you need a spine doctor for conservative care or a surgeon when surgery is truly the answer.

Insurance & Out-of-Network

We welcome out-of-network patients and will explain your likely costs and coverage before anything is scheduled — no surprises, and no referral required.

Proudly Serving the Greater Phoenix, Arizona Area

Trigger-Point Injections: Frequently Asked Questions