Getting to the point of dry needling
Do you have tight, aching, or sore areas throughout your body?
Then maybe dry needling could be the treatment for you.
Dry needling is an effective treatment when used in combination with stretching and physical activity in the treatment of conditions like:
- Back pain
- Neck pain
- Headaches
- Shoulder pain
- Tennis Elbow
- Ankle and foot pain
- Osteoarthritis
Dy needling is a gentle procedure in which small and fine/acupuncture needles are inserted into the skin and muscle. It is used primarily to address myofascial trigger points which are highly irritable taut bands within a muscle. Myofascial trigger points often develop following trauma/injury to muscles, overuse, arthritis and increased stress or anxiety in life. These trigger points can cause pain throughout the muscle surrounding tissue and often can refer pain elsewhere to a related region; called referred pain.
If you feel like you may be suffering from myofascial trigger points these symptoms are common:
- Dull ache in the region
- Feeling tight
- Restricted movement
- Reduced strength/weakness
- May have difficulty sleeping
The needles are usually inserted into these areas of knotted or tight muscle. The body responds in several ways which include increasing blood flow, changes in the chemical balance and changes in neural signalling within the local area. All these responses aid in the healing process.
What are the benefits of Dry Needling?
- Pain relief
- Improved movement
- Often less painful than other manual treatment techniques
- Improves sleep and relaxation
If you would like to know more about dry needling and whether it might be appropriate for you book a consultation with one of our experienced physiotherapists today.