Injection with local anesthetic (lidocaine) has been found to be one of the most effective treatments to inactivate trigger points and provide prompt relief of pain. Trigger points can be quickly relieved by introducing a small needle into the center of the irritable muscle band; at this time a very small amount of a local anesthetic is injected. This process serves two purposes:
- The needle is thought to physically interrupt the spasmed muscle, causing it to relax.
- Lidocaine is also a painkiller which lessens any soreness after the injection is complete.