What is Dry Needling?
Trigger-point dry needling is an invasive procedure where a fine needle needle is inserted into the skin and muscle. It targets myofascial trigger points – hyper irritable spots palpable as nodules in the taut bands of skeletal muscles. Trigger point dry needling can be performed at either superficial or deep tissue levels.
Why Dry Needling?
When physical therapists use dry needling, it is typically part of a larger treatment plan.
Dry needling can release or inactivate trigger points to relieve pain or improve range of motion. Research suggests that dry needling improves pain control and reduces muscle tension. Study findings also show that dry needling can normalise dysfunctions of the motor end plates, from which nerve impulses get transmitted to muscles. This can help speed up the patient’s return to active rehab.
As part of their entry-level education, physical therapists are well educated in anatomy and treatment of the body. Physical therapists who perform dry needling supplement also obtain specific training. When contacting a physical therapist for dry needling treatment, be sure to ask about their experience and education. You can contact a physical therapist directly for an evaluation and treatment.
