What is Dry Needling Therapy? - MS Thera Cure

Dry needling therapy is a technique that involves inserting thin, sterile needles into specific points in the muscles and fascia (connective tissue) to relieve pain, improve movement and enhance healing. It is also known as trigger point dry needling or intramuscular stimulation.

Dry needling therapy is based on the concept of myofascial trigger points, which are hyperirritable spots in the muscles that can cause local or referred pain, muscle tightness, reduced range of motion and other symptoms. These trigger points can develop due to various factors, such as overuse, injury, stress, poor posture or chronic inflammation.

Dry needling therapy aims to deactivate these trigger points by stimulating them with needles, which can cause a local twitch response (a brief contraction of the muscle fibers) and release of endorphins (natural painkillers). This can help restore normal blood flow, oxygen and nutrients to the affected area, reduce inflammation and promote healing.

Dry needling therapy can be performed at different depths, depending on the location and severity of the trigger points. Superficial dry needling involves inserting the needles up to 10 mm into the subcutaneous tissue, while deep dry needling involves penetrating the muscle tissue to reach the trigger points.

Dry needling therapy is not the same as acupuncture, although they both use similar tools. Acupuncture is based on traditional Chinese medicine and aims to balance the flow of energy (qi) along specific meridians (channels) in the body. Dry needling therapy is based on modern scientific research and targets specific anatomical structures related to musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction.

Dry needling therapy can be used to treat a variety of conditions, such as:

- Neck pain

- Back pain

- Shoulder pain

- Headaches

- Tennis elbow

- Carpal tunnel syndrome

- Knee pain

- Plantar fasciitis

- Fibromyalgia

- Chronic pelvic pain

Dry needling therapy can also be used as an adjunct to other treatments, such as physiotherapy, massage, exercise or medication.

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

- Bleeding

- Bruising

- Soreness

- Infection

- Nerve damage

- Pneumothorax (collapsed lung)

These risks are rare and can be minimized by choosing a qualified and experienced practitioner who follows proper hygiene and safety protocols.

Dry needling therapy is not suitable for everyone. It should be avoided by people who have:

- Bleeding disorders or take blood thinners

- Needle phobia or anxiety

- Allergy to metal or latex

- Active infection or skin condition at the site of treatment

- Pacemaker or other implanted device

- Pregnancy

Before undergoing dry needling therapy, it is important to consult with your doctor and inform your practitioner about your medical history and current medications. You should also follow the instructions given by your practitioner before and after the treatment, such as drinking plenty of water, avoiding alcohol and caffeine, applying ice or heat as needed and performing gentle stretches.

Dry needling therapy can be an effective option for people who suffer from musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction that does not respond to other treatments. It can provide immediate and lasting relief, improve function and quality of life and enhance recovery. If you are interested in trying dry needling therapy, you can visit best physiotherapist in Kolkata to book an appointment with one of our certified practitioners.