Dry needling is a treatment designed to ease muscular pain and tightness by using filiform needles and, more commonly, acupuncture needles. These needles do not inject any liquid into the body. That is why the term “dry” is used. Practitioners have found that by inserting a needle into a muscle knot, tension will be released in the surrounding muscle. Many doctors, chiropractors, and physical therapists use this method to treat muscle pain.
These muscle knots are also referred to as trigger points. When touched, trigger points can be highly sensitive and cause severe pain. Through consistent dry needling, the brain and muscles can begin talking to each other and return the system to a regular moving pattern.
Dry Needling Treatment
During a typical session, the practitioner will leave the needle inserted in the muscle knot for 10 to 30 minutes, depending on the type of pain.
Types of pain dry needling treats:
- Sciatica
- Lower Back Pain
- Upper Back Pain
- Shoulder Pain and Strain
- Muscle Tension and Strain
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Tendinitis
- Pelvic Pain
- Migraines
- Tension Headaches
- Whiplash
- Carpal Tunnel
- Joint Problems
- Disk Problems
- Phantom Pain
Dry needling is most often accompanied by other forms of physical treatment such as exercise, heat and manual therapy. When the needle is inserted, it is normal if a patient is feeling a slight tingle or achiness. This is considered to be a good sign!
Two less common forms of dry needling:
- The in and out technique, during which a practitioner inserts the needle and repeatedly moves it up and down through the trigger point. This method has been shown to relax the muscle and release the trigger point.
- The non-trigger points technique where the filiform needle is not inserted into a knot or pressure point, but instead in the surrounding muscle tissue.
Risks and Side Effects
Pregnant women should not participate in dry needling under any circumstance. Any patient who is considering dry needling should consult their doctor before scheduling an appointment. The minor side effects that have been discovered are as follows:
- Bruising
- Slight Bleeding
- Fatigue
- Fainting
- Soreness
Since dry needling has been developed more recently, there are no formal regulations in place. Also, there is limited research so some individuals may experience different side effects. If you’re ready to relieve your pain, schedule an appointment with Dr. Diane Aslanis today!