Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 2, 2026.
What kind of doctor provides Myofascial Trigger Point Injection?
Several kinds of doctors perform this procedure. Pain specialists, physical medicine and rehabilitation doctors, sports medicine doctors, and some family doctors all do it. The right doctor is one who has training in the procedure and treats muscle pain often.
What it is
A myofascial trigger point injection is a shot given into a sore, tight spot in a muscle called a trigger point, a small band of muscle that stays squeezed and hurts when pressed. The shot usually contains a numbing medicine called a local anesthetic, though sometimes it contains only salt water. The needle itself seems to help relax the muscle.
Why a doctor might recommend it
Trigger points can cause aching pain in the neck, shoulders, back, or other muscles, and the pain may spread to nearby areas. It often does not go away with rest, stretching, or over the counter pain relievers. A doctor may suggest an injection when other treatments have not helped enough.
How to prepare
Tell your doctor about all medicines you take, especially blood thinners, and mention any allergies, including to numbing medicines or latex. Plan for someone to drive you home if your doctor uses a medicine that makes you drowsy, though most people do not need this. Wear loose clothing so the doctor can easily reach the sore muscle.
What happens during it
The visit usually takes less than an hour, and the injections themselves take only a few minutes. The doctor cleans the skin, feels the muscle to find the trigger point, and inserts a thin needle, pushing a small amount of medicine into several places within the muscle. Many people feel a twitch or a brief ache when the needle hits the tight band; that twitch is a normal part of the procedure.
Recovery
Most people go home the same day and return to normal activities quickly. The muscle may feel sore or bruised for a day or two, and a cold pack and gentle stretching can ease that soreness. Doctors often pair the injections with stretching or physical therapy, which usually works better than shots alone.
Risks and side effects
Serious problems are uncommon. Common side effects include soreness at the needle site, a small bruise, or temporary numbness; less common risks include bleeding, infection, or an allergic reaction. A rare but possible effect is a pneumothorax (collapsed lung) when a trigger point near the chest or upper back is treated. Ask the doctor who knows your case to explain the risks that apply to you.
Who performs it
Doctors who perform trigger point injections include pain medicine specialists, physical medicine and rehabilitation doctors, sports medicine doctors, anesthesiologists, and some primary care doctors. Training and experience vary. It is fair to ask a doctor how often they do this procedure.
Common questions
Does the shot hurt?
You may feel a quick sting from the needle and a deep ache when the tight muscle is hit. Most people find the discomfort brief and tolerable. The numbing medicine often eases pain within minutes.
How many injections will I need?
It depends on how many trigger points you have and how your body responds. Some people need only one visit, while others return for several sessions.
How long does relief last?
Relief can last from days to months. Stretching, better posture, and physical therapy can help the benefit last longer, and if pain returns, the procedure can often be repeated.
Sources
- MedlinePlus - Common peroneal nerve dysfunction: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia
- MedlinePlus - Ulnar nerve dysfunction: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
