What Is Dry Needling? - Thera-Cure Clinic

 Dry needling is a technique that some healthcare providers use to treat pain and movement problems caused by myofascial trigger points. These are sensitive spots in your muscles that can cause pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. Dry needling involves inserting thin needles into or near these trigger points to stimulate them and release tension.

Dry needling is different from acupuncture, which is based on traditional Chinese medicine and aims to balance the flow of energy in your body. Dry needling is based on modern scientific research and focuses on specific muscle problems. Dry needling is also different from trigger point injections, which involve injecting medication into the trigger points.

Dry needling can be done at two levels: superficial or deep. Superficial dry needling involves inserting the needle just under the skin, while deep dry needling involves inserting the needle deeper into the muscle. Both techniques can help reduce pain and improve function, but deep dry needling may be more effective for chronic or severe conditions.

Dry needling works by creating a local twitch response in the muscle, which is a brief contraction or spasm. This helps restore normal blood flow and oxygen to the area, reduce inflammation, and deactivate the trigger point. Dry needling can also stimulate nerve fibers that send signals to your brain to release endorphins, which are natural painkillers.

Dry needling can be used to treat various musculoskeletal conditions, such as:

- Neck pain

- Back pain

- Shoulder pain

- Headaches

- Tennis elbow

- Carpal tunnel syndrome

- Knee pain

- Plantar fasciitis

Dry needling is usually done by a trained physical therapist, acupuncturist, or other healthcare provider who has completed a certification course. The provider will first assess your condition and locate the trigger points that are causing your symptoms. Then, they will insert sterile, single-use needles into or near these points. The needles are very thin and usually cause minimal or no pain. You may feel a slight prick, a twitch, or a dull ache when the needle reaches the trigger point. The provider may move the needle slightly to elicit more twitches or leave it in place for a few minutes. The number of needles and the duration of the treatment will depend on your condition and response.

Dry needling is generally safe and well-tolerated, but it may cause some side effects, such as:

- Bleeding

- Bruising

- Soreness

- Fatigue

- Drowsiness

- Nausea

These side effects are usually mild and short-lived, and can be managed by applying ice, heat, or pressure to the area, drinking plenty of water, and resting. In rare cases, dry needling may cause more serious complications, such as:

- Infection

- Nerve damage

- Pneumothorax (collapsed lung)

These complications can be prevented by using proper technique, hygiene, and precautions. You should inform your provider if you have any medical conditions or allergies that may affect your suitability for dry needling. You should also avoid dry needling if you are pregnant, have a bleeding disorder, have an active infection, or have a pacemaker.

Dry needling can be an effective treatment for many people who suffer from pain and movement problems caused by myofascial trigger points. However, it is not a cure-all and should be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that may include exercise, stretching, massage, and other modalities. You should consult with your healthcare provider before starting dry needling to determine if it is right for you.