Trigger Point Injections in Scottsdale: Targeted Relief for Muscle Pain and Tension
Unlock your Natural Healing Power
Muscle knots and tension can cause persistent pain that affects your daily life, sleep, and ability to enjoy activities. At Integrated Spine, Pain, and Wellness, we offer trigger point injections as a minimally invasive option for addressing myofascial pain—the discomfort caused by tight, knotted areas within your muscles known as trigger points.
Led by Dr. Ashu Goyle—a double board-certified anesthesiologist and interventional pain specialist with fellowship training from the Cleveland Clinic—our practice provides precise, targeted treatment for muscle-related pain throughout the neck, back, shoulders, and other areas affected by trigger points.
Understanding Trigger Points and Myofascial Pain
What Are Trigger Points?
Trigger points are hyperirritable spots within taut bands of muscle tissue—commonly described as “muscle knots.” These areas develop when muscle fibers contract and fail to release, creating localized tension and tenderness. Trigger points can form due to muscle overuse, injury, stress, poor posture, or repetitive movements.
Why Do Trigger Points Cause Pain?
Trigger points cause pain in two ways:
- Local pain: Direct tenderness and discomfort at the site of the trigger point
- Referred pain: Pain that radiates to other areas of the body—for example, a trigger point in the neck may cause headaches, or a trigger point in the gluteal muscles may cause pain down the leg
This referred pain pattern is why myofascial pain can be difficult to diagnose and treat without targeted intervention. The source of pain may not be where you feel the discomfort most intensely.
The Pain-Tension Cycle:
Trigger points often create a self-perpetuating cycle: the tight muscle causes pain, which leads to protective muscle guarding, which creates more tension and more trigger points. Breaking this cycle is essential for achieving lasting relief.
How Trigger Point Injections Work
Trigger point injections deliver medication directly into the knotted muscle tissue to release tension and interrupt the pain cycle.
The Procedure:
Using a thin needle, Dr. Goyle injects medication directly into the identified trigger point. The injection causes the taut muscle band to relax, releasing the knot and allowing the muscle to return to its normal state.
What the Injection May Contain:
Depending on your specific situation, trigger point injections may include:
- Local anesthetic (such as lidocaine): Provides immediate pain relief and helps relax the muscle
- Corticosteroid: Reduces inflammation in the surrounding tissue when indicated
- Saline: In some cases, the mechanical action of the needle itself (with saline) is sufficient to release the trigger point
Immediate and Long-Term Benefits:
The injection provides both immediate relief from the local anesthetic and longer-term benefits by breaking the pain-tension cycle. Once the trigger point is released, the muscle can heal and function normally, often preventing the recurrence of the same knot.
Conditions Addressed with Trigger Point Injections
Trigger point injections may be appropriate for various conditions involving muscle tension and myofascial pain:
Head and Neck:
- Tension headaches
- Chronic neck pain
- Cervicogenic headaches (headaches originating from the neck)
- Jaw and facial pain related to muscle tension
Back and Spine:
- Upper back pain and tension
- Mid-back muscle pain
- Low back muscle pain
- Pain related to postural strain
Shoulders and Upper Extremities:
- Shoulder blade pain
- Rotator cuff-related muscle tension
- Upper arm pain from referred trigger points
Hips and Lower Extremities:
- Piriformis syndrome
- Gluteal muscle pain
- Hip pain related to muscle tension
- Sciatic-type pain from gluteal trigger points
Other Conditions:
- Myofascial pain syndrome
- Fibromyalgia-related muscle pain
- Pelvic floor muscle tension
- Sports-related muscle injuries
Trigger point injections are particularly effective when specific, identifiable knots in the muscle are contributing to your pain pattern.
What to Expect: Before, During, and After Your Procedure
Before Your Procedure:
Consultation: Dr. Goyle will review your medical history, discuss your symptoms, and perform a physical examination to identify trigger points. This hands-on assessment—feeling for taut bands and tender nodules within the muscle—is essential for locating the specific areas to target.
Pre-Procedure Instructions:
- If sedation is required (uncommon for trigger point injections), fast for at least 6 hours before your appointment
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows access to the treatment area
- Inform us of any medications you’re taking, particularly blood thinners
During Your Procedure:
Trigger point injections are typically quick procedures, often taking only 15-30 minutes depending on the number of trigger points being treated. You’ll be positioned comfortably, and the injection sites will be cleaned. Using a thin needle, Dr. Goyle will inject the medication directly into each identified trigger point. You may feel a brief twitch or cramping sensation as the muscle releases—this is actually a positive sign that the trigger point has been accurately targeted.
After Your Procedure:
- You may experience some soreness at the injection sites for 24-48 hours
- Applying ice or heat (as directed) can help with any post-procedure discomfort
- Gentle stretching of the treated muscles may be recommended
- Most patients can return to normal activities immediately or within a day
- The full benefit of the injection typically develops over several days as the muscle continues to relax and heal
- Follow-up appointments allow us to assess your response and treat additional trigger points if needed
Why Choose Integrated Spine, Pain, and Wellness
Cleveland Clinic Training: Dr. Ashu Goyle completed his fellowship at the Cleveland Clinic—one of the nation’s top medical institutions—providing expertise in identifying and treating complex pain conditions.
Double Board Certification: Dr. Goyle is board-certified in both anesthesiology and interventional pain management, with extensive experience in precise injection techniques.
Comprehensive Assessment: We take time to properly identify trigger points through careful physical examination, ensuring treatment is targeted to the actual source of your pain.
Holistic Approach: Trigger point injections are often most effective when combined with other approaches such as stretching, postural correction, and addressing underlying contributing factors. We consider the whole picture, not just the immediate symptoms.
Personalized Care: Every patient’s pain pattern is unique. We develop individualized treatment plans based on your specific trigger points, symptoms, and goals.
Trigger Point Injections as Part of Comprehensive Care
At Integrated Spine, Pain, and Wellness, trigger point injections are one component of our complete approach to musculoskeletal pain. Depending on your condition, Dr. Goyle may recommend trigger point injections alone or in combination with other treatments:
Interventional Procedures:
- Epidural steroid injections for spine-related nerve pain
- Facet joint injections for spinal joint pain
- Sacroiliac joint injections
- Medial branch blocks
Regenerative Medicine:
- Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate (BMAC) therapy—using your own stem cells
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy
- Exosome therapy
- Autologous Conditioned Serum (Regenokine®)—Dr. Goyle is one of only nine physicians in the U.S. offering this treatment, and the only provider in Arizona. This is the treatment professional athletes like the late Kobe Bryant used to return to competition with minimal downtime.
Advanced Technology:
- MLS M8 Class IV Laser therapy—our state-of-the-art therapeutic laser can complement trigger point injections by helping address inflammation and supporting the body’s natural healing processes in the treated muscles
The combination of trigger point injections with other modalities often provides more comprehensive and lasting relief than any single treatment alone.
Dr. Ashu Goyle: Your Expert in Pain Management
Dr. Ashu Goyle founded Integrated Spine, Pain, and Wellness with a commitment to providing expert, compassionate care for patients dealing with chronic pain. His credentials include:
- Double board certification in anesthesiology and interventional pain management
- Fellowship training at the Cleveland Clinic
- Years of experience in identifying and treating myofascial pain conditions
- One of only nine Regenokine® providers nationwide (the only provider in Arizona)
- Recognition as a Phoenix Magazine “Top Doc” (2011-2020)
Dr. Goyle’s approach combines technical skill with genuine care for each patient’s well-being. He takes time to thoroughly assess your condition, explain your options, and develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and goals.
Schedule Your Consultation
If you’re experiencing muscle pain, tension, or knots that affect your daily life, the first step is a consultation with Dr. Goyle. During your visit, we’ll:
- Review your medical history and symptoms
- Perform a physical examination to identify trigger points
- Discuss your pain patterns and how they affect your activities
- Explain your treatment options
- Develop a personalized plan to address your specific needs
Contact Integrated Spine, Pain, and Wellness today to schedule your consultation.
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Ideal Candidate?
If you’re an active person struggling with pain that limits your physical activities, PRP therapy may be the solution you’re seeking. It’s designed for those who want to address the root cause of their pain, not just mask symptoms. Whether it’s chronic back pain, chronic tendonitis, knee pain, or a lingering sports injury, PRP therapy may offer a path to recovery that aligns with your body’s natural healing processes.
Why Trust Dr. Goyle with Your Recovery?
Dr. Goyle stands out as a distinguished expert in regenerative medicine and orthobiologics, backed by an impressive foundation of training and experience. His journey in anesthesiology and pain management was honed at the prestigious Cleveland Clinic, a testament to his commitment to excellence in patient care. With double board certifications in anesthesiology and pain medicine, along with a rich background in research and various certifications in regenerative treatments, Dr. Goyle offers a depth of expertise that is rare in the field. He crafts personalized treatment plans aimed at active individuals, prioritizing the restoration of function and a swift return to the activities and lifestyles his patients cherish.
RECLAIM YOUR
Active Life with PRP Therapy
Don’t let pain keep you on the sidelines. Discover how PRP therapy may help you overcome injury, reduce pain, and enhance your body’s ability to heal—so you can return to the active lifestyle you cherish.
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OUR COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE
Accreditations & Partnerships
The Interventional Orthobiologics Foundation
Institute For Functional Medicine
Cleveland Clinic
The American Board of Anesthesiologists
American Society of Anesthesiologists
American Society of Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medicine
American Society of Interventional Pain Physicians
The American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine
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Frequently Asked Questions
What conditions can trigger point injections help with?
Trigger point injections are primarily used for myofascial pain—pain caused by tight, knotted areas within muscles. This includes tension headaches, chronic neck pain, upper and lower back muscle pain, shoulder tension, piriformis syndrome, and other conditions where identifiable muscle knots are contributing to pain. During your consultation, Dr. Goyle will assess whether trigger points are contributing to your symptoms.
How do trigger point injections differ from other pain treatments?
Unlike oral medications that circulate throughout your entire body, trigger point injections deliver treatment directly to the specific muscle knots causing your pain. This targeted approach addresses the source of discomfort rather than just masking symptoms. The mechanical action of the needle, combined with the medication, helps release the contracted muscle fibers and break the pain-tension cycle.
What does a trigger point injection feel like?
Most patients tolerate the procedure well. You may feel a brief pinch as the needle enters the skin, followed by a sensation of pressure or a brief muscle twitch as the trigger point is injected. This twitch response—called a “local twitch response”—actually indicates that the trigger point has been accurately targeted. Any discomfort is typically brief.
How quickly will I notice results?
Many patients notice some improvement immediately after the injection due to the local anesthetic. The full benefit typically develops over several days as the muscle continues to relax and the inflammation subsides. Some patients experience significant relief after a single treatment, while others may benefit from a series of injections to address multiple trigger points.
How many trigger points can be treated in one session?
Multiple trigger points can often be treated in a single session, depending on their locations and your individual tolerance. Dr. Goyle will discuss the treatment plan during your consultation, including how many trigger points will be addressed and whether multiple sessions may be beneficial.
Are trigger point injections safe?
Trigger point injections are generally very safe when performed by an experienced physician. The most common side effects include temporary soreness at the injection site and occasional bruising. Rare risks include infection or allergic reaction to the medication. Dr. Goyle will discuss potential risks specific to your situation during your consultation.
How long do the results last?
The duration of relief varies by individual and depends on factors such as the underlying cause of your trigger points, your activity level, posture, and stress. Some patients experience lasting relief after one or two treatments, while others may benefit from periodic injections. Addressing contributing factors—such as posture, ergonomics, and muscle imbalances—can help prolong the benefits.
Is there any downtime after the procedure?
Trigger point injections require minimal to no downtime. Most patients can return to normal activities immediately or within a day. You may experience some soreness at the injection sites for 24-48 hours, which typically resolves on its own. We may recommend gentle stretching of the treated muscles to enhance the benefit.
Can trigger point injections be combined with other treatments?
Yes, trigger point injections are often most effective as part of a comprehensive treatment approach. They may be combined with physical therapy, stretching programs, postural correction, our MLS laser therapy, or other interventional procedures depending on your specific condition. Dr. Goyle will recommend the most appropriate combination for your needs.
Are trigger point injections covered by insurance?
Trigger point injections are commonly covered by insurance plans when medically indicated. Coverage varies by plan and may depend on the specific diagnosis and number of injection sites. Our team can help verify your benefits and discuss any out-of-pocket costs before your procedure.
How do I know if I have trigger points?
Common signs of trigger points include localized muscle tenderness, tight “knots” you can feel in the muscle, pain that worsens with pressure on specific spots, and pain that refers to other areas when the tender spot is pressed. During your consultation, Dr. Goyle will perform a physical examination to identify trigger points and determine whether they’re contributing to your symptoms.
What qualifications does Dr. Goyle have?
Dr. Ashu Goyle is double board-certified in anesthesiology and interventional pain management. He completed his fellowship training at the Cleveland Clinic—one of the nation’s premier medical institutions. He has years of experience treating myofascial pain conditions and has been recognized as a Phoenix Magazine “Top Doc” from 2011-2020. Dr. Goyle is also one of only nine physicians in the U.S. offering the Regenokine® treatment program—and the only provider in Arizona.
