What is myoActivation Trigger Point Injections (TPI)?
A fine needle is used to administer a small injection of saline (0.9%) targeted to muscle, fascia, connective
tissue, and scar tissue. The needle is inserted into shortened muscle tissue to elicit a spinal cord reflex
response that allows contracted tissue to lengthen. This takes strain off joints, and nerves and relieves pain,
stiffness and range of motion restrictions. Unlike most trigger point injections techniques, a single session of
myoActivation trigger points can include anywhere between 10 and 80 needle insertions. It may also include a
combination of deep and shallow needling techniques. Multiple insertions may be made in the same muscle
before moving on to a new spot, and the needle does not remain in the skin for more than a few seconds.
Additionally the physician may treat superficial fascia and scar tissue by using multiple shallow needle
insertions to areas where the fascia appears restricted. This treatment promotes blood flow to injured areas
and encourages the natural healing process.
What is injected?
We inject 0.9% saline solution (NaCl) in micro quantities. Saline solution is pH balanced to your blood and is
the same fluid that is used in an IV. It is not a drug, and people do not generally have sensitivities to it. The
total amount injected in one treatment session is usually less than 2 mL.
Is TPI similar to acupuncture?
There are many similarities and differences between dry needling and acupuncture. In contrast to most
schools of acupuncture, TPI is strictly based on Western medicine principles and research. Needles are
inserted based on tension and pain in muscle and fascial tissues. This treatment is not based on energy
channels or meridians like Traditional Chinese Medicine. Additionally, needles are inserted and removed
quickly rather than left in the skin. Many people who have tried acupuncture and did not have a good result
may still benefit from myoActivation Trigger Point Injections.
How does the TPI work?
The exact mechanisms of needling are not known. The current theory is that the needle targets stretch
receptors in the muscular tissue causing a lengthening response that occurs as a reflex. This is referred to as a
“local twitch response” and usually feels like a little shock or even a cramping sensation. Additionally the
needle draws blood to the area, promoting the body’s natural healing mechanism. The micro-injection of
saline is thought to increase the irritation, helping this response happen more readily. Basically, myoActivation
trigger point injections help stimulate body into repairing itself.
What type of problems can be treated with TPI?
TPI can be used for a variety of myofascial problems. Such conditions include neck, back, and shoulder pain,
arm pain or tendonitis (eg: tennis elbow, carpal tunnel, golfer’s elbow), headaches and migraines, jaw pain,
buttock, hip, and leg pain (including sciatica, hamstrings strains, calf tightness/spasms), and foot pain such as
plantar fasciitis. This technique has also been used successfully in certain cases of abdominal pain, non-cardiac
chest pain, GERD, idiopathic shortness of breath, bell’s palsy, and rectal and pelvic pain.
Is the procedure painful?
Everyone’s body responds differently to the treatment, some people do find it painful, others do not. Most
patients feel a sting when the needle is inserted. The local twitch response may elicit a brief painful sensation,
but this usually settles quite quickly. Some patients describe this as a little electrical shock; others feel it more
like a cramping or grabbing sensation. Others however feel a non-painful muscle release described like a
balloon being deflated. If the muscles have been tight for a long time the pain can be a bit more intense but
this muscle response is a good and desirable reaction.
Can I do needling myself as part of my home program?
No, TPI requires extensive training and should never be tried at home.
What side effects can I expect after the treatment?
Many patients report a feeling of weakness directly after the treatment. This is because the newly released
muscles are indeed weak. Most people are sore after the procedure for the next 1-2 days. The soreness may
be caused by minor muscle bruising from the needle insertion. Occasionally there is pain from a larger bruise
that may occur when a needle accidentally touches an unseen blood vessel (hematoma). This may cause a
bump underneath the skin which should resolve in 3-10 days depending on the size. Most patients report
feeling quite tired for a day or two after treatment. Other less common side-effects include a worsening of
symptoms or short-lasting numbness or tingling in the extremities. These symptoms should resolve within a
few days.
What should I do after having the procedure done?
For the next five days after treatment you should not do anything too strenuous. The muscles are weak after
being contracted for so long and need some recovery time. Move within your body’s normal range. Avoid
prolonged fixed positions and try to move and stretch every 30 minutes. These newly released tissues want to
move, but they do not want to be strained, stretched, or loaded. We recommend that you avoid going to the
gym or doing a regular exercise routine for a full five days after treatment. When you do return to these
activities, do so slowly, listening to your body and not pushing yourself.
For pain from bruises, you may also apply mild heat or cooled pads ice over the area. Acetaminophen (like
Tylenol) or ibuprofen (like Advil) can be taken if they are safe for you.
How long does it take for the procedure to work?
Typically, it takes several treatments but it is very individual and depends on how severe the problem was
when we started and the number and complexity of underlying problems might be contributing.
Once I am feeling better, how often do I need to come back to maintain my progress?
The musculoskeletal system is under constant pressure from gravity, stress, work etc. A regular exercise
program combined with good posture can prevent many problems. MSP-covered TPI is not designed to serve
as a maintenance program, but rather to break cycles of chronic pain and help you begin to function normally
again. Once you are feeling better, If you feel you need for “tune-ups” you are welcome to do so through our
personal pay services stream.