Dry needling is a treatment technique to target pain from muscle trigger points, nerve pain and joint pain. It involves the use of fine, solid, filament needles, similar to those used in acupuncture. These needles can be inserted into trigger points which are often called knots. Trigger points are areas of tension within a muscle that can develop through over activity, tension, muscular injuries or chronic conditions creating pain and decreased function within the effected muscle. The needle insertion stimulates the trigger point with the aim of deactivating and desensitising the area, decreasing the tense area and increasing blood flow to the are to pain management and healing. Dry needling treatment has also been shown to decrease inflammation and nerve pain.
Dry needling is often used by many quaified allied health providers who have completed specific dry needling training. These therapists are highly trained in anatomy and identifying areas of muscular tension requiring treatment.
Dry needling can be an effective treatment for a range of musculosketal conditions including:
- Back and neck pain
- Tennis elbow
- Iliotibial pain syndrome (running syndrome)
- Plantar fasciitis
- Achilies tendonopathies
- Referred spinal pain
Dry needling should not be confused with Acupuncture which is a form of Traditional Chinese Medicince that focuses on the use of meridians and energy pathways through the body. To determine if dry needling is the best treatment for you, have a conversation with your local allied health professional next time you see them.