Dry needling is a relatively new treatment method that uses thin needles to release pain-causing trigger points. It can help reduce inflammation, improve function and minimize scar tissue formation.
A physical therapist can use it to treat a wide range of musculoskeletal issues, including neck and back pain. It is typically part of a holistic treatment plan.
How do I know if I’m a good candidate for dry needling?
If you have persistent pain in your muscles or joints that is not responding to other therapies, you may be a good candidate for dry needling Dry Needling Durham NC. This is a minimally-invasive treatment that involves a thin needle, known as a filiform needle, being used to release myofascial trigger points that are responsible for the pain.
A physical therapist will perform the treatment under a sterile environment using gloves and protective equipment. They will locate trigger points in the muscle using palpation (feeling through your skin).
The needle will be inserted into the trigger point and then manipulated to reproduce what is called a “local twitch response” – a quick spasm of the muscle.
Many patients experience an immediate improvement in their condition after a session. However, a number of sessions are necessary for optimal results.
What happens during a dry needling session?
During a dry needling session, your provider inserts needles into the muscles and the fascial tissue that surrounds them. Physical therapists use this technique to treat myofascial trigger points, which are knotted muscles that can cause pain and stiffness.
The needles create a local twitch response in your muscle, which causes the trigger point to release and reduce pain. This results in improved circulation, which means that your muscle can get the oxygen and nutrients it needs to heal.
Your provider will place the needles at different depths and angles to address each trigger point. They will also work on the surrounding soft tissues and connective tissue.
A few people may feel slight bruising or numbness in the insertion site. This is a normal part of the treatment and will go away on its own within 24 hours. However, if you experience significant bleeding or shortness of breath, call your provider immediately. It could be a sign of a collapsed lung (pneumothorax).
How long does it take to recover from a dry needling session?
Dry needling is an effective treatment that can alleviate pain, reduce tightness in muscles and improve movement. The procedure is safe and painless, and it’s also more cost-effective than medications or surgery.
In particular, trigger point dry needling can be effective for back, neck, shoulder and tendonitis pain. These are all conditions that can be attributed to a specific muscle/fascial knot that creates referred pain and affects motor function.
A sterile, thin filament needle is inserted into the muscle, which then elicits a twitch response in the trigger point. When the trigger point is manipulated, it’s released and allows for better circulation of oxygenated blood to the area, which speeds up healing and reduces pain.
Typically, you can expect to feel sore after your session, although this should go away within 24 to 48 hours. It’s best to drink lots of water, stretch the treated area and use ice to help ease soreness. It’s also helpful to get a good night’s sleep after your treatment.
How many dry needling sessions will I need?
Dry needling is an effective treatment for releasing trigger points and tight muscles. However, the number of sessions you need will depend on your condition and level of pain.
Our physical therapists at 360 Physical Therapy & Wellness can help you find long-lasting relief from your trigger point and muscular tension with dry needling. Depending on the severity of your issue, you may need as few as two or three sessions to achieve the results you want.
Conclusion
Trigger points are tender spots in skeletal muscles that can cause local and referred pain. These trigger points are also known to interfere with normal muscle function.
