Suffering From Muscle Aches, Tension and Pain? Ever Tried Dry Needling?
Dry needling is a treatment technique administered by physiotherapists to treat specific neuromuscular problems (muscles, joints, nerve) contributing to pain. More than 85% of people suffer from myofascial pain at some point throughout their lifetime, with common locations being the lower back, neck and shoulders. Dry needling has been used for over 50 years, and research studies have found treated patients report reductions in pain, increased range of motion and improved function in everyday tasks.
What is dry needling?
Dry needling uses a very fine sterile needle, which is carefully inserted into specific muscles/areas of the body. Depending on the desired effect, the needles are usually left in place for 5-10 minutes. For maximum benefits, dry needling is best used as an adjunct to other physiotherapy treatments.
How does it actually work?
The insertion of the needle into the soft tissues has effects at both the local level (area where the needle is) as well as the peripheral and central neural systems (nerves). In simple terms, inserting a needle into taut bands of muscles (a.k.a. ‘knots’, trigger points) can stimulate a muscular twitch response which works to relieve tension/spasms/tightness of particular muscles which are contributing to your pain and limited joint range. The needle also stimulates nerves and the release of chemicals (e.g. serotonin, potassium, endorphins) that increases the input to the central nervous system. This aims to close the ‘gates’ of pain inputs, which then downgrades the feeling of pain. An inflammatory response is also created to facilitate blood flow and any desired healing process. In comparison, acupuncture is largely based on western/chinese medical principles to create a balance/flow of energy through the body by using specific meridian points.
Does dry needling hurt?
The insertion of the needle may elicit a short-lasting sting-like feeling. Sometimes a brief muscle twitch is noted which feels like a minor cramp/spasm for a millisecond. When the needles are left in place, pain is usually no longer felt. After needling, sometimes tenderness is felt in the area for up to a day, with most people able to continue their day as normal. If dry needling is for you, an effect is usually noticed after 1-2 treatments.
Will dry needling work for me?
Common conditions which respond well to dry needling may include:
- Neck and low back pain
- Hip pain
- Sciatica
- Shoulder pain
- Bursitis
- Tendon pain (e.g. tennis elbow, achilles tendinitis)
- Plantar fasciitis
- Headaches
All of our Physiotherapists at Moreton All Body Care are qualified to administer dry needling (if indicated) and can do so in a usual 30 minute appointment with NO EXTRA COSTS. During the consultation, the physiotherapist may use other manual treatments and provide you with exercises to perform at home to augment the effects of the dry needling and to manage recurrences.
For more information or to book an appointment, please contact us on 07 3886 9470 (Narangba) or 07 3888 6699 (Burpengary).