Trigger point blocks are used to treat individuals with pain that is caused by knots within muscle, formed when the muscle is unable to relax. Sometimes, these painful regions of muscle, called trigger points, can put pressure on nearby nerves, causing additional pain that radiates to other regions of the body.

Applying anesthetic and/or steroid directly into the trigger point can block pain sensations and reduce inflammation in the region. Often, only one treatment is required to provide sustained relief. This treatment is often successful for individuals with infrequent development of trigger points as well as for those with Myofascial pain syndrome.