What is Dry Needling?
It is an increasingly popular treatment, developed to ease muscular pain. During this procedure, the practitioner inserts varied needles into your skin. These are filamentous needles which are short, fine, stainless steel needles that do not inject any fluid into the body. That’s why the procedure is called dry needling. Dry needling is also called intramuscular stimulation where needles are placed in the trigger points of muscle or tissue. Dry needling also helps reduce the knots and relieve muscle pain.
Is it the same as Acupuncture?
Although both Dry Needling and Acupuncture use very fine needles that are inserted into the skin to treat pain, there are differences between the two methods. Acupuncture focuses on the release of the body’s energy to promote natural healing by inserting a needle into specific points on the body. Dry Needling focuses on relieving tight muscles and / or cramps by inserting the needle directly into the tight area or knot.
What are the Benefits of Dry Needling?
- Relieves pain
- Boosts healing
- Increases blood circulation
- Increases range of motion
- Enhances muscle strength and functionality
- Decreases muscle spasm
- Improves muscle activation patterns
- Relieves acute and chronic pain
- Improves central nervous system response
What Conditions can Dry Needling Treat?
Most known conditions treated by dry needling are sciatica, joint dysfunction, spinal dysfunction, migraine, tennis elbow, neck pain, low back pain and tension, overuse injuries, tendinitis, headaches, and fibromyalgia.
Is it Painful?
It is generally pain-free. The needles used are very thin and are hardly felt when inserted properly. Patients may experience a blink response when the inserted needles cause tingling or a pseudo pain, felt in that muscle.
Are There any side effects of Dry Needling?
All patients do not experience side effects. When side effects occur, they are often mild. Side effects include bruising or bleeding, temporary increase in pain, allergic reactions, tiredness, and fatigue.
