Dry Needles
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is dry needling?
Dry needling is the process of inserting fine dry needles into the affected muscle to release myofascial trigger points and relieve pain with the need for further medical intervention. Dry needling procedures are performed by licensed physical therapists to alleviate strain and tension in tendons, ligaments and muscles.
Does dry needling hurt?
Dry needles are extremely thin and typically cause very little pain upon entry into the skin. In fact, most patients can hardly feel it at all. The insertion point, however, causing the myofascial release within the affected muscle and corresponding trigger point, can become sore after the procedure and last for a few days.
What is the difference between dry needling and acupuncture?
Although seemingly similar, dry needling and acupuncture are two very different treatments. Acupuncture is based on the ancient Chinese practice of placing needles along ‘meridian’ lines intended to connect the body’s internal organs and other systems. This process is believed to restore balance and proper flow of energy throughout the body and is used to treat internal ailments like digestive disorders, stress and chronic pain.
Dry needling however was developed in the 1980’s based on modern Western medicine. Dry needles are inserted into trigger points, or tender bands of muscle located within larger muscles which then triggers a release response and returns the targeted area to normal function. Dry needling is traditionally used to resolve both acute and chronic pain without the need for surgical or medicinal intervention.
What are the side effects of dry needling?
Most commonly, dry needling side effects include soreness at the insertion site or the surrounding area during or after the procedure typically followed by marked improvement within a few days; bruising, bleeding, fatigue, and fainting.