Dry Needling

Dry needling is a therapeutic technique used in physical therapy to treat musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. It involves the insertion of fine, sterile needles into specific points in the muscles or soft tissues, called trigger points, in order to alleviate pain and improve function.

Unlike acupuncture, which is based on traditional Chinese medicine and aims to balance the body's energy flow, dry needling is rooted in western medicine and is based on the science of anatomy, physiology, and neurology. It targets trigger points, which are areas of tightness and hypersensitivity in the muscles or soft tissues, and releases them by causing a twitch response in the muscle fibers.

During a dry needling session, the physical therapist will first assess the patient's condition and identify the areas of the body that are causing pain or dysfunction. The therapist will then insert a thin, solid needle through the skin and into the trigger point. The needle may be manipulated or moved in and out of the trigger point to elicit the twitch response.

The twitch response is a brief, involuntary contraction of the muscle fibers that helps to release tension and improve blood flow to the area. The patient may feel a dull ache or a slight twitching sensation during the procedure, but it is generally not painful. The therapist may also use electrical stimulation or heat therapy in conjunction with dry needling to enhance the effects of the treatment.

Dry needling can be used to treat a variety of musculoskeletal conditions, including neck and back pain, headaches, shoulder pain, tennis elbow, hip pain, knee pain, and plantar fasciitis, among others. It is often used in conjunction with other physical therapy techniques, such as manual therapy and exercise, to achieve the best possible outcomes for the patient.

Overall, dry needling is a safe and effective treatment option for patients experiencing musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. However, it is important to receive dry needling from a licensed and trained physical therapist who has the necessary skills and expertise to perform the procedure safely and effectively.

Back to Services