Trigger Point Injections in Novi, MI
About Trigger Point Injections
Trigger points are tight, irritable bands within a muscle that can be tender to the touch and may refer pain to nearby areas, for example from the upper back into the neck or head.
A trigger point injection places a small amount of medication, most often a local anesthetic, directly into the trigger point to help the muscle relax and reduce pain.
Who may benefit
Trigger point injections are often considered for muscular neck and low back pain, muscle strains, and myofascial pain that has not settled with stretching, activity changes or therapy alone.
What to expect
- Examination to locate the trigger points that reproduce your pain.
- A fine needle is used to inject the trigger point; several points may be treated in one visit.
- Temporary soreness at the injection site is common for a day or two.
- Stretching, exercise and posture work help keep trigger points from returning.
Physician-led care in Novi
Treatment at Excel Physical Medicine and Rehab is provided under the direction of Dr. Augustus (Peter) Evangelista, who is board certified in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and in Pain Medicine. Treatment plans can include on-site physical therapy in Novi.
Verify this physician's specialty and practice address in the Corewell Health directory or Trinity Health Michigan directory.
Common questions
- Are trigger point injections the same as dry needling?
- No. Both use a needle at the trigger point, but a trigger point injection delivers medication, while dry needling does not.
- Do trigger point injections treat every kind of neck or back pain?
- No. Trigger point injections target painful muscle trigger points. Neck and back pain may have other causes, so an evaluation is important before deciding which treatment, if any, is appropriate.
- How do I know if this treatment is right for me?
- Every treatment plan at Excel Physical Medicine and Rehab starts with a comprehensive physiatric assessment. Dr. Evangelista reviews your history, examines how the problem affects your function, and discusses whether this option makes sense alongside alternatives such as physical therapy.
This page is general patient education, not medical advice. Whether a treatment is appropriate for you is decided after an in-person evaluation. For emergencies, call 911.
Schedule a consultation
Start with a comprehensive physiatric assessment at our Novi office.