Immediately After Treatment
It's normal to experience some soreness, bruising, or tenderness at and around the injection sites for 24–72 hours.
- Apply an ice pack to the area in 15-minute intervals during the first 24 hours to reduce soreness and swelling.
- Avoid strenuous physical activity and heavy lifting for the rest of the day.
- Refrain from massaging or pressing firmly on the injection sites for the first 24 hours.
Managing Discomfort
- Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen can help manage post-injection soreness.
- Avoid blood-thinning medications like ibuprofen or aspirin unless medically necessary, as they can worsen bruising.
- Gentle heat (a warm compress) may be applied after the first 24 hours to help relax surrounding muscle tissue.
- Stay well-hydrated — hydration supports muscle recovery and helps flush out any released toxins from the muscle tissue.
Activity & Movement
- Light, gentle movement of the treated area (such as gentle jaw stretches if directed) is often encouraged to prevent stiffness.
- Avoid returning to habits that contributed to the muscle tension in the first place — jaw clenching, teeth grinding, or prolonged poor posture.
- If prescribed physical therapy or exercises in conjunction with your injections, follow that guidance closely.
- Results may take a few days to fully develop as the muscle releases and relaxes.
When to Call Our Office
- Worsening pain beyond 72 hours or pain that is significantly different from expected soreness.
- Signs of infection at an injection site — increasing redness, warmth, or discharge.
- Numbness, weakness, or unusual symptoms in the treated area.
- No improvement in your symptoms after 1–2 weeks — a follow-up or adjusted treatment plan may be needed.
Trigger point injections can be genuinely life-changing for patients dealing with chronic jaw and facial pain. If you have questions about your recovery or want to discuss your results, call Bethesda Center for Family and Cosmetic Dentistry — we're here for you.
