Dry Needle
Dry needling is a physical therapy technique used for individuals experiencing musculoskeletal pain, muscle tension, and movement disorders. Unlike acupuncture, which is based on traditional Chinese medicine, it is based on modern Western medical principles and relieves pain by targeting myofascial trigger points.
What is dry needling?
Dry needling is a therapy technique in which thin needles are inserted into specific points in the muscles (myofascial trigger points). These trigger points are tight bundles of muscle fibers that can cause pain, stiffness, and limited movement. The term “dry” means that no medication or injections are used during the procedure. Some of the conditions for which the technique is used include:
- Chronic pain
- Muscle spasms
- Tendinitis
- Headaches and migraines
- Joint dysfunction
- Sports injuries
How does dry needling work?
The technique works by targeting myofascial trigger points, which are defined as “knots” in the muscles. These trigger points can disrupt normal muscle function, causing pain and limited movement. When a needle is inserted into a trigger point, the following effects occur:
Reduces muscle tension: The needle causes a local twitch response that helps the muscle relax and relieve tension.
Increases blood circulation: The insertion of the needle stimulates blood flow to the area, promoting healing and reducing inflammation.
Regulates pain signals: The app can provide immediate relief by interrupting pain signals sent to the brain.
Restores muscle function: Targets muscle tension and pain to help restore normal movement patterns.
A study published in the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy found that the method significantly reduced pain and improved function in patients with musculoskeletal conditions.
What are the conditions treated with dry needling?
Dry Needling is a versatile method that can be used to treat a variety of conditions:
- Chronic Pain: It is particularly effective in chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia, low back pain, and neck pain. It reduces pain and improves quality of life by targeting trigger points.
- Sports Injuries: Athletes often use this method to recover from conditions such as muscle strains, tendonitis, and overuse injuries. This method speeds up the healing process and improves performance.
- Headaches and Migraines: Tension-type headaches and migraines are often associated with muscle tension in the neck and shoulders. Dry Needling can reduce the frequency and severity of headaches by reducing this tension.
- Joint Dysfunction: It increases joint mobility by eliminating muscle tension and imbalances that contribute to joint pain and stiffness.
- Post-Surgery Rehabilitation:Patients recovering from surgery often experience muscle tension and pain. The method provides relief by relaxing the muscles and supports the healing process.
What are the benefits of dry needling?
The main benefits of the method can be listed as follows:
It is a pain reliever: It provides instant relief from muscle pain and tension.
It increases mobility:It helps restore normal movement patterns by loosening tight muscles.
It provides faster healing: It stimulates blood flow and speeds up healing.
Non-surgical: It is a method applied with minimal risks.
It is a complementary therapy: It can be used together with other physical therapy techniques to achieve better results.
How is dry needling applied?
A session generally includes the following steps:
Evaluation: Your physiotherapist evaluates your condition and determines the trigger points to target.
Insertion of the Needle: Thin, sterile needles are inserted into the trigger points. You may feel a slight stinging sensation or a twitching response.
Insertion of the Needle: The needles are left in place for a few minutes to allow the muscle to relax.
Treatment Post Care: Your physical therapist may recommend stretching, ice, or heat therapy to enhance the effect.
Most patients feel immediate relief, but some may experience mild tenderness for a day or two after the session.
What are the differences between dry needling and acupuncture?
Both methods use thin needles, but they have the following basic differences:
Dry needling is based on Western medical principles and targets myofascial trigger points to relieve pain and improve function.
Acupuncture is based on traditional Chinese medicine and involves inserting needles along meridians to balance the body’s energy flow (Qi).
The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) states that acupuncture is used for general health, while dry needling specifically targets musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction.
Are there any risks to dry needling?
Dry needling is generally safe when performed by a trained and licensed professional. However, here are some potential risks:
Bruising or Bleeding: You may experience mild bruising or bleeding at the needle insertion site.
Sensitivity: Some patients may experience temporary tenderness after the procedure.
Infection: Although rare, needles that are not properly sterilized can cause infection.
Nerve Damage: Improper needle placement can cause nerve damage, but this is extremely rare with trained professionals.
Who is dry needling suitable for?
Dry Needling is suitable for individuals with:
- Chronic pain
- Muscle tension or spasms
- Sports injuries
- Headaches or migraines
- Joint pain or stiffness
- Post-operative discomfort
Who cannot have dry needling?
It may not be suitable for people with bleeding disorders or needle phobia.
Sources:
- Journal of Manual & Manipulative Therapy
- American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)
- Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH)
- British Journal of Sports Medicine