Regenerative Medicine Services
Trigger Point Injections in Tucson
Targeted relief for muscle pain, tension, and movement restriction
Trigger point injections are a precise, effective treatment to reduce muscle pain, calm irritated tissue, and improve movement. At Common Roots Acupuncture, we combine injections with orthopedic acupuncture, dry needling, and movement-based assessment for long-lasting results.
What Are Trigger Point Injections?
Trigger point injections involve placing a small amount of medication directly into tight bands of muscle or irritated soft tissue.
This helps relax the muscle, reduce pain sensitivity, improve circulation, and restore normal movement patterns.
We use a precise, evidence-informed approach to identify the root source of your pain and treat it directly, so you can move, work, and live with less discomfort.
What Is a Trigger Point?
A trigger point is a tight, hyperirritable area within a muscle or fascia that can cause pain locally and refer pain to other parts of the body.
These knots can form from overuse, posture, stress, injury, or repetitive movement.
Common Signs of Trigger Points
Achy or knotted muscles
Pain in one area that travels elsewhere
Reduced range of motion
Tender spots that reproduce your symptoms
Persistent stiffness or a worked-on feeling
Discomfort even when imaging appears normal
What Is Injected?
At Common Roots, we use non-steroid solutions tailored to your needs. These may include:
- Lidocaine
- Procaine
- Saline
- Traumeel®
- Dextrose (as appropriate)
- Other natural substances where appropriate
Benefits of Trigger Point Injections
- Reduce muscle pain
- Release stubborn knots
- Improve mobility and function
- Decrease referred pain
- Calm irritated tissue
- Support healing and recovery
- Help you return to activity sooner
What Conditions Can Trigger Point Injections Help With?
Neck Pain
Shoulder Pain
Rotator Cuff Pain
Tension Headaches
TMJ-Related Muscle Tension
Low Back Pain
Gluteal Pain & Sciatica-Like Symptoms
Hip Pain
Tennis Elbow
Myofascial Pain Syndrome
Sports Injuries
Postural & Overuse Strain
Trigger Point Injections vs. Dry Needling and Acupuncture
Trigger Point Injections
Uses a small amount of solution injected directly into the trigger point to relax the muscle, reduce pain, and improve circulation.
Often provides fast, targeted relief for irritated or stubborn knots.
Dry Needling
Uses a thin filiform needle, with no medication, to stimulate the trigger point and release tension.
Helps restore muscle function and reduce pain through a neuromuscular reset. Learn more about dry needling.
Acupuncture
Stimulates specific points on the body to improve circulation, reduce pain, and support whole-body balance.
Addresses both local symptoms and underlying patterns. Learn more about acupuncture.
We often combine these tools for the most effective, personalized results.
What to Expect During and After Treatment
- Treatment is quick, usually 10 to 20 minutes.
- You may feel a brief pinch or pressure.
- Mild soreness or a worked-on feeling is normal.
- Some people feel immediate relief; others improve over several days.
- We provide guidance on movement, hydration, and self-care to maximize results.
Our Approach at Common Roots
Josh Whiteley, RN, L.Ac. combines modern orthopedic reasoning with integrative medicine to find and treat the true source of your pain.
We combine trigger point injections with:
- Orthopedic acupuncture and dry needling
- Electroacupuncture
- Cupping therapy
- Movement and postural assessment
- Recovery guidance and home care
Not sure whether trigger point injections or dry needling is the better fit? Our detailed comparison, Trigger Point Injections vs. Dry Needling, walks through the differences. We also treat knee osteoarthritis using this same combined approach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are trigger point injections safe?
Yes. When performed by a trained, licensed provider, trigger point injections are considered very safe. We use sterile technique, non-steroid solutions, and a thorough health history to make sure treatment is appropriate for you.
Do trigger point injections hurt?
Most people feel a brief pinch and a sensation of pressure or a muscle twitch. Any soreness afterward is usually mild and settles within a day or two.
Are these the same as cortisone injections?
No. Cortisone is a steroid that reduces inflammation but can weaken tissue when used repeatedly. Trigger point injections use non-steroid solutions to relax muscle and restore movement, so they can be repeated more comfortably over time.
How many treatments will I need?
It depends on how long the problem has been present. Many people notice a change within one to three sessions, while chronic or widespread patterns may need a longer course of care.
Can I combine this with acupuncture?
Yes, and we usually do. Combining injections with acupuncture, dry needling, and movement work tends to produce better and longer-lasting results than any single approach.
Ready to Get Out of Pain?
If you are dealing with tight muscles, referred pain, stubborn knots, or movement-related pain, we are here to help.