What is Dry Needling?
Dry Needling is a technique used to treat musculoskeletal pain and movement issues. It involves inserting a fine needle into a trigger point in the muscle causing it to quickly go from a contracted state to a neutral, relaxed one. This instantly releases tension and pain held in the muscle body.
What does a dry needling appointment look like?
An acupuncturist will palpate the tissue, finding the muscles that are in a contracted state. They will sterilize the treatment area and prepare the needle. Needles are always single use, sterile, and disposable. Then, they will needle into the contracted muscle using a specific technique that causes it to fire or twitch. Sometimes more than one trigger point will need stimulation. You will feel the muscle twitch and then relax. Next, a topical herbal liniment is used, as well as cups. These two modalities help to restore the natural blood flow of the area allowing for healing at a root level.
What can dry needling help with?
- Any Musculoskeletal Pain
- Local and Referred Pain
- Soreness
- Limited Range of Motion
- Tightness
- Inflammation
Is Dry Needling the Same as Acupuncture?
It is. Dry Needling is simply a specific branch of medicine called motor or trigger point acupuncture. It involves a unique needle technique and is frequently accompanied by cupping and topical herbal liniments.
Are there any side effects of Dry Needling?
It is common to feel like you just had an amazing workout for 24 hours after a session. That is to say, you might experience some muscle soreness in the areas worked on. Keeping the tissues warm after treatment is always recommended.
Is Dry Needling Safe?
When performed by a licensed provider, it is a quick, safe, and effective form