What is Dry Needling?
Dry Needling involves inserting a needle without injection. “Dry needling” is another name for western medical acupuncture. In treatment, a needle is inserted into the skin and muscle directly at a myofascial trigger point (MTP) consisting of multiple contraction muscle knots which are related to the production and maintenance of pain.
What is a “trigger point”?
A “trigger point” is a hyperirritable point in a muscle that is associated with a hypersensitive palpable nodule, or “knot.” This area becomes painful at the site and can also “radiate” in predictable patterns.Does it hurt?
A healthy muscle feels very little discomfort with insertion of this needle. However, if the muscle is sensitive and shortened or has active trigger points within it, the subject will feel a sensation like a muscle cramp (the “twitch” response).
What is the difference between Dry Needling and Acupuncture?
The objectives and philosophy behind the use of dry needling by physical therapists is not based on ancient theories or tenets of traditional Chinese medicine. The performance of modern dry needling by physical therapists is based on Western Neuroanatomy and modern scientific study of the musculoskeletal and nervous systems.
Both Dry Needling and Acupuncture do, however, use the same tool; a solid needle filament.
Who can benefit from Dry Needling?
Almost anyone experiencing a variety of pain problems including, but not limited to:- Acute/Chronic injuries
- Headaches
- Neck/Back pain
- Tendinitis
- Muscle Spasms
- “Sciatica”
- Hip/Knee pain
- Muscle strains
- Fibromyalgia
- “Tennis/Golfer’s Elbow”
- PFPS
- Overuse injuries