Dry Needling

What is dry needling and how does it relate to Physiotherapy?

Dry needling is a form of Physiotherapy treatment that is rapidly gaining popularity among physiotherapists and clients alike. Dry needling involves the insertion of thin monofilament needles into specific points on your body, in order to reduce pain and improve mobility within the muscle. It has been used effectively to help treat various musculoskeletal conditions such as neck and back pain, sciatica, and overuse injuries. But what exactly is dry needling, and how can it be used to help in physiotherapy? In this blog post, we’ll explore the answers to these questions and more.

What is dry needling?

Dry needling is a technique that physiotherapists use to treat myofascial pain. It involves inserting fine needles into trigger points in the muscle to release tension and relieve pain.

Dry needling is an effective treatment for myofascial or muscle pain, which is a common type of chronic pain. The technique can be used to target specific muscle groups or trigger points. It is a safe and well-tolerated treatment with few side effects.

Physiotherapists who are trained in dry needling can help you determine if the technique is right for you. If you are interested in trying dry needling, make sure you ask in our consult and we can discuss how dry needling can help you.

How does dry needling work?

Dry needling is a form of therapy that involves inserting thin needles into the skin at specific points. These points are usually located near areas of muscle tension or trigger points. Dry needling is used to relieve pain, increase range of motion, and improve function.

The needles used in dry needling are much thinner than those used in traditional acupuncture. There are a few differences between acupuncture and dry needling. Dry needling is a Western medicine treatment that targets tight muscles and are inserted deep into the sore palpable muscle. Acupuncture is an Eastern modality that targets meridian points more superficial to the skin. In dry needling, the Physiotherapist will insert the needle and then gently move it back and forth until the muscle relaxes. This process can be repeated several times during a single session. You may even feel the muscle twitch which is said to be the muscle fibers releasing built up calcium which then causes the muscles to relax.

Most people tolerate dry needling well and do not experience any side effects. There may be some temporary bruising or post treatment soreness at the needle site, but this should resolve within a few days.

What are the benefits of dry needling?

Dry needling is a treatment that can offer many benefits for those who are dealing with chronic pain or injuries. The technique involves inserting a thin needle into the skin and muscles to help release tension and improve blood flow. This can help to reduce pain, improve range of motion, and speed up the healing process.

Are there any risks associated with dry needling?

There are some risks associated with dry needling, but they are generally rare and minor. The most common risk is temporary pain or bruising at the needle site. Other potential risks include dizziness, fainting, and local skin reactions.

Serious complications from dry needling are very rare, but have been reported in a small number of cases. These complications can include punctured lungs, spinal cord injury, and nerve damage. While these complications are extremely unlikely, it is important to be aware of them before undergoing treatment.

If you have any concerns about the risks of dry needling, be sure to discuss them with myself before treatment begins. Easy Peasy!

How can dry needling be used in physiotherapy?

Dry needling is a technique that can be used in physiotherapy to help treat muscle pain. Dry needling is generally used in combination with other physiotherapy treatments such as massage or rehab exercises.

Dry needling is thought to work by stimulating the muscles and nervous system, which can help to reduce pain signals being sent to the brain. It can also help to release muscle tension, improve blood flow and promote healing. Dry needling is usually safe and well tolerated, but there is a risk of bruising or discomfort at the needle site.

If you’re considering dry needling as a physiotherapy treatment for your muscle pain, I will assess whether it is suitable for your condition and advice on the best way to proceed.

Conclusion

I have a lot of clients who respond well to dry needling and rave about it a day or two after treatment. This technique has proven to be effective in relieving pain and reducing the amount of time it takes for the body to heal itself. With the right instruction and proper precautions, dry needling can offer significant relief to those suffering from tight muscles and restriction of movement. As a holistic Sports Physio, I aim to give you relief, educate you on what is going on and provide you with the most bang for your buck treatment to get you going again.