Dry Needling

Dry Needling involves inserting thin, solid needles into specific trigger points (also known as myofascial trigger points) within muscles, tendons, or connective tissues. Unlike acupuncture, dry needling does not involve the concept of energy flow, but instead focuses on addressing muscle dysfunction and pain directly.

 

Key aspects of dry needling include:

 

Trigger Point Release

Trigger points are tight knots or bands of muscle fibers that can cause pain, tension, and restricted movement. The needles are inserted into these points to help release tension, alleviate pain, and promote muscle relaxation.

​

Needle Insertion

 The needles used in dry needling are similar to those used in acupuncture, but the technique differs. The therapist inserts the needle into the muscle at the trigger point, and in some cases, the needle may cause a "twitch response" (a brief involuntary muscle contraction), which is considered a sign that the muscle is being released.

​

Pain Relief and Healing

 Dry needling is often used to treat musculoskeletal pain, including conditions like chronic neck or back pain, headaches, sports injuries, and conditions like fibromyalgia. The treatment is believed to increase blood flow to the area, reduce muscle tension, and help improve movement and function.

 

Muscle Rehabilitation

 Dry needling can be used alongside other physical therapy treatments, such as exercises and manual therapy, to help rehabilitate injured or overused muscles and reduce pain.

 

Minimal Side Effects

 While dry needling is generally safe, some individuals may experience mild soreness, bruising, or slight bleeding at the needle insertion sites. Serious complications are rare when performed by trained practitioners.
 

Dry needling is distinct from acupuncture in that it is based on modern anatomical and neurological principles rather than traditional Chinese medicine. While many people find dry needling effective for pain relief and muscle rehabilitation, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine if it is the right treatment for specific conditions.