Trigger point, or myofascial pain, refers to points that are painful to the touch. Trigger points are divided into active and latent groups. Active trigger points cause constant pain and inhibit movement, leading to a reduction in the use of the muscle group. Latent trigger points are formed by injuries or microtrauma and may be present for years after the inciting event. They do not manifest themselves or become active until movement in the involved joint is extended beyond the usual range.To treat trigger point pain, our physicians find and eliminate the trigger points that perpetuate the pain cycle, prevent normal range of motion, and shorten the active length of the involved muscle. Trigger point injections are very safe and effective in decreasing or eliminating myofascial pain. In certain circumstances, Botox may be used to lengthen the duration of pain relief.Complications are extremely rare and involve the risks of the needle placement (infection, bleeding, or local tissue injury) and the local anesthetic injection. A series of trigger point injections are most likely to be effective when added to ongoing physical therapy, followed by home stretching exercises.