The Benefits Of

Dry Needling

Dry needling is a highly effective physical therapy technique used to treat a variety of conditions, including musculoskeletal pain and mobility issues.

Usually part of a larger rehabilitation plan, dry needling involves the insertion of ultra fine needles into specific layers of muscle tissue to reach myofascial trigger points — tender, knots and constrictions that form in muscles due to injury, overuse or acute stress.

Dry needling provides several benefits for individuals seeking pain relief and improved muscular function. One key advantage is its ability to release muscular tension and trigger points. By inserting thin needles into specific trigger points or tight muscles, dry needling can help relieve muscle knots and spasms, reducing pain and improving range of motion.

Dry needling also promotes improved blood circulation. The insertion of needles into targeted areas stimulates blood flow, increasing the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the tissues. This can enhance tissue healing and recovery.

Another benefit of dry needling is its impact on the nervous system. The needles stimulate sensory nerves, leading to a release of endorphins and other natural pain-relieving substances. This can result in pain reduction and an overall sense of relaxation.

It can also be effective in addressing various musculoskeletal conditions, including chronic pain, sports injuries, and conditions like fibromyalgia and myofascial pain syndrome.

The tiny needles are “dry,” meaning nothing is injected into the skin, however, the careful placement of the needles into irritated tissues creates a controlled, inflammatory response that results in tiny twitches in muscle tissues. These forced, but gentle contractions eliminate knots and tension and kick start the body’s natural healing processes, including improved blood flow and collagen production to the treated area.

The result is less pain and tension, improved range of motion and faster overall healing outcomes.

Unlike acupuncture, which is rooted in Chinese medicine and treats physical, mental and emotional conditions by balancing the body’s energy, dry needling is a western practice specifically targeted to relieve pain in muscle structures, often with immediate results.

A powerful therapy on its own, dry needling is sometimes combined with laser therapy for a more comprehensive pain management plan. The light energy of laser therapy along with dry needling offers a synergistic effect that builds on the immediate relief often provided by dry needling to include the long-term reduction of pain and inflammation for more complete healing.