Myofascial pain is characterized by ‘trigger points’—painful knots found in the skeletal muscle of the body. Myofascial trigger points cause tightness and muscle pain, both in the muscle itself, as well as in other areas of the body. This phenomenon is known as ‘referred pain.’
For example, myofascial trigger points in the muscles of the scalp, jaw, neck, shoulders, and upper back can lead to pain in the head and face. It is understood that migraines are caused by the swelling of the blood vessels on the surface of the brain. Myofascial pain can be the underlying cause of the brain changes that take place when a migraine headache occurs.
Trigger Point Injections for Migraine Head Aches
A Physiatrist may recommend and perform Trigger Point Injections to target myofascial trigger points and reduce muscle pain and spasms associated with migraine headaches. This treatment involves an injection of a local anesthetic medication and/or cortisone into trigger points.
The Physiatrists at Monmouth Pain and Rehabilitation use Ultrasound imaging technology to increase the effectiveness, precision, and accuracy of Trigger Point Injections. Ultrasound helps to guide injections by providing real-time, moving images of affected areas.
