Dry Needling is a treatment technique , in this an acupuncture needle, a fine filament sterile needle is inserted into the muscle to assist with decreasing pain and improving function through the release of myofascial trigger points generally knows as knots in the muscle.
What is the Difference Between Dry Needling and Acupuncture?
Dry Needling is a not the same as acupuncture, although there are similarities between the two techniques. The main difference between Dry Needling and acupuncture is the theory behind why the techniques work. Dry Needling is primarily focused on the reduction of pain and restoration of function through the release of myofascial trigger points in muscle.
In comparison, acupuncture focuses on the treatment of medical conditions by restoring the flow of energy (Qi) through key points in the body (meridians) to restore balance.
What is a Myofascial Trigger Point?
A myofascial trigger point also known as trigger points, also known as a knot in the muscle, are described as hyper-irritable spots in the skeletal muscle. They are associated with palpable nodules in taut bands of muscle fibers. It is a group of muscle fibres which have shortened when activated but have not been able to lengthen back to a relaxed state after use. A myofascial trigger point is characterized by the development of a sensitive nodule in the muscle. This occurs as the muscle fibres become so tight that they compress the capillaries and nerves that supply them As a result, the muscle is unable to move normally, obtain a fresh blood supply containing oxygen and nutrients, or flush out additional acidic chemicals. In addition to this nodule, the remainder of the muscle also tightens to. The presence of a myofascial trigger point in a muscle can lead to discomfort with touch, movement and stretching; to decreased movement at a joint; and even a temporary loss of coordination
What Causes a Myofascial Trigger Point?
A myofascial trigger point develops as part of the body’s protective response following:
injury - the muscle will tighten in an attempt to reduce the severity of an injury;
unexpected movements e.g. descending a step that is lower than originally anticipated;
quick movements e.g. looking over your shoulder while driving;
change in regular activity or muscle loading e.g. an increase in the number or intensity of training sessions for sport;
sustained postures e.g. prolonged sitting for work or study;
nerve impingement - the muscle will tighten to protect the nerve;
stress;
illness (bacterial or viral);
nutritional deficiencies,
metabolic and endocrine conditions.
How does Dry Needling Work?
Dry Needling assists with decreasing local muscular pain and improving function through the restoration of a muscle's ability to lengthen and shorten normally by releasing myofascial trigger points.
In simple words when a dry needle is first inserted, it may briefly cause the muscle to contract, then it relaxes. Ultimately, dry needling is meant to improve overall muscle function. In scientific explanation when a fine filament needle is inserted into the center of a myofascial trigger point, blood pools around the needle triggering the contracted muscle fibers to relax by providing those fibers with fresh oxygen and nutrients, as well as by flushing away any additional acidic chemicals. This, in turn, leads to the decompression of the local blood and nerve supply.
When is it Appropriate to Use Dry Needling as a Form of Treatment?
Dry Needling can be used in treatment:
to help release myofascial trigger points (muscle knots);
to assist with pain management, and;
to restore movement at a joint if inhibited by myofascial trigger points.
What Will You Feel During Dry Needling Treatment?
During a Dry Needling treatment, you may feel a slight sting as the needle is inserted and removed. However, this discomfort should last no longer than a second before settling.
A brief muscle twitch can also be experienced during a Dry Needling treatment. This may occur during treatment when the needle is inserted into a myofascial trigger point.
Where Does Dry Needling Fit Within Your Rehabilitation Program?
Dry Needling is one of many techniques that can be utilized by your physiotherapist to assist with your rehabilitation. Dry Needling is often used in combination with other techniques including massage, manual therapy, and exercise prescription.
What are the Side Effects of Dry Needling?
Every form of treatment can carry associated risk. Your physiotherapist can explain the risks and can determine whether Dry Needling is suitable for you based on your injury and your general health.
When Dry Needling is performed, single-use, sterile needles are always used and disposed of immediately after use into a certified sharps container.
Is Dry Needling Safe?
Everybody is different and can respond differently to various treatment techniques, including Dry Needling. In addition to the benefits that Dry Needling can provide, there are a number of side effects that may occur, including spotting or bruising, fainting, nausea, residual discomfort or even altered energy levels. However, these symptoms should last no longer than 24 to 48 hours after treatment.
Can You Exercise After Dry Needling?
It is recommended to avoid strenuous or high impact activities immediately after Dry Needling, to allow the body time to recover, and to maximize the benefits of the treatment.
At our clinic The Midas Touch Physiotherapy, most of our physiotherapists are qualified and skilled in Dry Needling and would be happy to discuss your treatment options.
12 potential benefits of dry needling:
1. Reduces low back pain, neck pain, knee pain, shoulder pain, hip pain, myofascial pain
2. Accelerates your body’s natural healing processes
3. Resolves headaches, migraines
11. Helps with tendonitis
12. Reduces sciatica symptoms
The Main question which always arises in patients mind
Is dry needling right for you?
Trigger point dry needling is a low-risk, low-cost, and evidence-based method for the relief of many conditions.
Dry needling actually works. This ancient Chinese treatment for chronic pain and stress relief has been shown to reduce musculoskeletal pain by targeting acupuncture points (in your skeletal muscles) with dry needles.
Physiotherapists all across the globe have started to employ this conservative treatment option for patients with chronic pain. Since athletes commonly report chronic pain, many sports medicine practitioners have welcomed the evidence-based practice with open arms.