Dry Needling
Dry needling involves the insertion of thin needles (similar to acupuncture needles) into specific trigger points or tight bands of skeletal muscle, aiming to release tension and promote pain relief. Unlike acupuncture, which is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine and focuses on balancing energy flow, dry needling is based on Western medicine principles. The primary objective of dry needling is to target myofascial trigger points—localized areas of muscle tightness or knots that may be a source of pain, limited range of motion, or dysfunction.
During a dry needling session, we insert needles directly into the muscles affected by injury. The needle stimulates the muscles and connective tissues, promoting increased blood flow and the release of chemicals that aid in reducing pain and inflammation.
Dry needling is often used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for various musculoskeletal conditions, including but not limited to chronic pain, muscle strains, tension headaches, and sports injuries. It is considered a valuable adjunct to other therapeutic interventions, such as exercise, stretching, and manual therapy.