
Are you dealing with chronic headaches that never seem to go away, no matter how many painkillers you try? For many patients, the source of their headache pain isn’t neurological or sinus-related—it's myofascial pain syndrome, a muscle-based condition that often goes undiagnosed.
At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ in Richland, WA, Dr. Bloxham offers targeted, evidence-based treatment for chronic headaches using trigger point injections, especially effective for those suffering from myofascial pain syndrome.
What Is Myofascial Pain Syndrome?
Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) is a chronic pain condition caused by tight, irritable spots in the muscles—known as trigger points. These trigger points can form after muscle overuse, injury, poor posture, or prolonged stress and tension. What makes MPS particularly troublesome is that these trigger points often refer pain to other areas of the body, including the head, temples, jaw, neck, and shoulders.
Common symptoms include:
- Persistent headaches or facial pain
- Muscle tenderness and stiffness
- A feeling of tight “knots” in the neck or shoulders
- Pain that worsens with stress or physical activity
- Limited range of motion
MPS is especially common in people with desk jobs, TMJ disorders, sleep disturbances, or chronic stress—factors seen often in patients across Tri-Cities Washington.
Chronic Headaches and Myofascial Pain Syndrome: What’s the Connection?
Many chronic headaches, particularly tension-type headaches and referred pain headaches, are caused by myofascial trigger points in muscles such as the:
- Trapezius
- Sternocleidomastoid (SCM)
- Temporalis
- Masseter
- Suboccipital muscles
These muscles can develop trigger points that radiate pain to the forehead, temples, back of the head, and even behind the eyes. If your headaches begin in the neck or shoulders and work their way up—or feel like a constant dull ache—myofascial pain syndrome may be the underlying issue.
How Trigger Point Injections Provide Relief
Trigger point injections (TPIs) are a safe, quick, and minimally invasive treatment that directly targets muscle-based pain caused by myofascial pain syndrome.
How It Works:
- A very fine needle is used to inject a small amount of anesthetic (and sometimes saline or corticosteroid) directly into the active trigger point
- This relaxes the tight muscle fibers, increases blood flow, and reduces inflammation
- The result is fast, often immediate, relief from tension and referred headache pain
For many patients, TPIs are a game-changer—especially when other treatments like massage, chiropractic care, or medications have fallen short.
Benefits of Trigger Point Injections for Myofascial Headaches
Patients across Richland, Kennewick, Pasco, and the broader Tri-Cities Washington area are turning to trigger point injections as a lasting solution for both chronic headaches and myofascial pain syndrome.
Benefits include:
- Rapid pain relief—often within minutes
- Reduction in headache frequency and intensity
- Improved mobility and reduced muscle stiffness
- Decreased reliance on daily pain medications
- Non-opioid, non-surgical treatment
- Effective when combined with physical therapy or TMJ treatment
Comprehensive Care for Myofascial Pain Syndrome in Tri-Cities, WA
At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ, Dr. Bloxham takes a comprehensive approach to pain relief—looking at the root cause rather than just managing symptoms. If your headaches are caused by myofascial pain syndrome, TPIs can be a powerful part of your treatment plan.
We specialize in treating interconnected conditions like:
- Chronic tension headaches
- TMJ disorders
- Myofascial pain syndrome
- Sleep-disordered breathing and poor sleep quality
We proudly serve patients from across Tri-Cities Washington and surrounding areas, helping them find lasting relief and better quality of life.
Take the First Step Toward Headache Relief Today
If you're ready to break free from the cycle of chronic headaches caused by myofascial pain syndrome, contact Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ today to schedule a consultation.
📍 Located in Richland, WA, serving the greater Eastern Washington region
📞 Call us now or visit our website to learn more about trigger point injections for chronic headaches and MPS









