Trigger Point Injections
Relief From Muscle Tension, Jaw Pain & Headaches
Persistent muscle tension in the jaw, temples, face, and neck can contribute to chronic facial pain, headaches, TMJ discomfort, and restricted jaw movement.
At Colorado TMJ & Facial Pain, trigger point injections are used to target painful muscle knots and areas of muscle dysfunction contributing to jaw tension and myofascial pain.
Treatment is customized by Dr. Sami Sarabadani, DDS, MDS, a Board-Certified Orofacial Pain Specialist, based on each patient’s symptoms, muscle findings, and overall treatment goals.
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Providing TMJ and facial pain care for patients throughout Parker, Littleton, Denver, and surrounding areas.
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What Are Muscle Trigger Points?
Muscle trigger points are tight, sensitive areas within muscles that may contribute to jaw pain, facial tension, headaches, neck discomfort, ear symptoms, and restricted jaw movement.
These irritated muscle areas may develop from:
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Clenching and grinding
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TMJ disorders
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Stress-related muscle tension
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Poor posture
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Muscle overuse
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Chronic pain conditions
At Colorado TMJ & Facial Pain, trigger point injections are used as part of a conservative treatment approach to help reduce muscle-related pain and improve jaw function.
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Symptoms & Conditions Commonly Treated
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TMJ-related muscle pain
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Chronic jaw tension
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Tension headaches
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Migraine-related muscle tightness
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Facial muscle pain
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Neck and shoulder tension
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Jaw clenching & grinding (bruxism)
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Myofascial pain
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Limited jaw opening
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​​​​​​​​​​​What To Expect During Trigger Point Therapy
During treatment, specific painful muscle areas are carefully identified through clinical examination and palpation. A small amount of anesthetic solution may then be placed into the trigger point to help reduce muscle tension and discomfort.
Treatment is typically quick and performed in-office.
Many patients describe:
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Reduced muscle tightness
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Improved jaw comfort
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Decreased headache frequency
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Better jaw mobility
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Less facial tension
Common Areas Treated
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Masseter muscles
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Temporalis muscles
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Sternocleidomastoid (SCM)
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Trapezius muscles
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Cervical muscles
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Temporalis tendon region
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Trigger points of the jaw and neck
Specialized Evaluation Matters
Not all jaw pain and headaches originate from the same source. Trigger point injections are most effective when combined with a comprehensive evaluation of the jaw joints, muscles, bite, nerves, sleep health, and contributing habits.
Dr. Sami Sarabadani is a Board-Certified Orofacial Pain Specialist with advanced training in TMJ disorders, facial pain, headaches, and muscle-related jaw conditions. Comprehensive evaluation may include:
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TMJ assessment
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Muscle examination
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Bite evaluation
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Headache screening
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Sleep and clenching assessment
Frequently Asked Questions
Common Questions About Trigger Point Injections
Are trigger point injections painful?
Most patients tolerate the procedure very well. The injections are typically quick and use very small needles.
What medication is used?
Depending on the clinical situation, treatment may involve local anesthetic and other therapeutic solutions.
How long does relief last?
Relief varies depending on muscle activity, stress levels, clenching habits, posture, and underlying conditions.​​
Are trigger point injections the same as Botox?
No. Trigger point injections and Botox work differently and may be recommended for different clinical situations.
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Can trigger point injections help headaches?
In some patients, muscular trigger points may contribute to tension-type headaches and facial pain patterns.