Dry Needling is a technique physical therapists use for the treatment of pain and movement impairments. It is a skilled intervention for the management of pain and movement impairments. This technique uses a thin filiform needle (similar to an acupuncture needle) to penetrate the skin and stimulate underlying myofascial trigger points as well as muscular and connective tissues.
Dry needling is used to treat dysfunctions in skeletal muscle, fascia, and connective tissue by stimulating neural pathways to reduce or restore impairments of body structure and function leading to improved activity and participation.
There can be discomfort to the area being needled. However, the needles are extremely thin and for most patients, they experience little to no pain.
Muscles that are sensitive, shortened or that have active trigger points may cause a sensation similar to a muscle cramp called ‘the twitch response’ when the needle is inserted.
It's not uncommon to have some soreness around the targeted muscle after your session, so it is very important to drink plenty of fluids prior to and after your appointment. Icing the area is also an effective method for reducing soreness.
Yes. Dry needling is just one of many manual therapy techniques used by physical therapists to treat pain. A self pay option is available for patients seeking dry needling treatment only for routine pain management following discharge from physical therapy.
Dry needling is a westernized form of medicine and nowhere near as ancient as acupuncture practice. While similar needles are used during both therapies, dry needling is solely focused on pain and tension release.
Acupuncture uses the body’s meridian pathways to target and direct energy, while dry needling is focused on particular muscular trigger points.
If you still have questions regarding Dry Needling or you would just like to learn more about it, you can click the link below and it will take you to one of our trusted industry resources.
Vita Fitness & Physical Therapy
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