Dry needling is a modern treatment technique that healthcare providers use for its ability to help with muscle pain and enhance mobility. Whether you’re managing ongoing discomfort or recovering from muscle strain, working with a qualified and experienced practitioner can support effective, lasting results.
First off, what is dry needling?
Dry needling is a therapeutic intervention that involves inserting fine, sharp needles into specific points within the muscle, known as myofascial trigger points or “muscle knots”. Some alternative names you may come across are trigger point dry needling or intramuscular stimulation.
While it shares some similarities to acupuncture in its use of needles, dry needling distinctly focusses on musculoskeletal issues rather than energy pathways. It is also based in Western medicine and evaluation of pain patterns, postures and orthopaedic best practices.
Meanwhile, acupuncture is more rooted in traditional Chinese medicine and involves inserting needles into specific points along meridians, believed to influence the flow of energy (qi) in the body. Acupuncture’s broader goal is to promote overall health and well-being.
How does dry needling work?
Essentially, dry needling targets the source of muscle dysfunction rather than just masking the symptoms. The process involves the precise insertion of a fine needle into a trigger point. When the needle pokes the muscle knot, the targeted intervention promotes a localised twitch response) a quick spasm of the muscle), which can help relax the muscle, improve blood flow, and reduce pain.
By addressing these underlying issues, dry needling can empower you to lead a more active, pain-free lifestyle. In addition, the process helps stimulate the body’s natural healing processes and accelerates muscle recovery.
Each dry needling session usually lasts about half an hour; which is perfect, especially for patients who lead busy lifestyles.
What conditions can dry needling help with?
Dry needling can help reduce pain and improve your range of movement, and is often used to support the treatment of a variety of conditions, including:
- Joint or spinal problems
- Disk issues
- Tendonitis
- Migraines and tension-type headaches
- Jaw and mouth conditions, like temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders
- Whiplash
- Repetitive strain injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome
- Pelvic pain
- Night cramps
- Phantom limb pain
- Postherpetic neuralgia, a complication that can follow shingles
While it can be highly effective for many people, it may not be suitable for everyone. It is important to consult with a GP or healthcare professional, who can help determine whether dry needling is safe for you and tailor the treatment to your needs.
What are some benefits of dry needling?
Dry needling can help with muscle and joint pain, such as chronic back pain, sports injuries, and even headaches. It’s a great option for anyone looking to feel better and move more freely.
Here are some specific benefits you can experience from dry needling:
- Pain relief: Studies have shown that dry needling can significantly reduce pain levels, particularly for conditions like low back pain and neck pain.
- Improved range of motion: By releasing tight muscles, dry needling can help improve flexibility and range of motion. This is very helpful for people with tight lower back, neck and shoulder muscles.
- Faster recovery: Dry needling can accelerate the healing process for injuries, allowing you to return to your normal activities sooner. Athletes, in particular, turn to dry needling to optimise performance and help in recovery.
- Reduced muscle tension: It can help alleviate muscle tension and spasms, leading to improved relaxation and reduced discomfort.
- Enhanced performance: For athletes, dry needling improves performance by optimising muscle function and reducing the risk of injury.
Is dry needling a safe procedure?
A common concern among patients is the safety of dry needling. Rest assured, dry needling is a safe and effective treatment when performed by a qualified healthcare professional. The needles are single-use, sterile and disposable, minimising the risk of infection.
While some may experience mild discomfort during the procedure, most patients find it tolerable. During the procedure, the feeling can vary from person to person but it’s generally described as a combination of sensations:
- A slight prick: This is when the needle initially penetrates the skin.
- A dull ache: As the needle reaches the trigger point, you may feel a mild, aching sensation.
- A twitch response: This is a localised muscle contraction that can occur when the needle stimulates the trigger point. It may feel surprising, but it’s a sign that the treatment is working.
After the procedure, there may be some potential side effects to consider:
- Soreness and muscle stiffness.
- Bruising and discolouration at, or near the needle insertion site.
- Risk of fainting.
- General fatigue.
How often should I have dry needling?
The frequency of sessions that a patient books depends the severity of the condition/s, how their body responds, and their medical history. A common starting point is one to two sessions per week, for a minimum of three weeks. This may be adjusted based on patient response and improvement.
Dry needling can help for several days after just one session. Many patients feel instant relief right away.
A personalised approach is important for getting the best treatment results. This approach combines a trained practitioner’s knowledge with ongoing assessment of how the patient responds.
Finding a qualified dry needling physio or practitioner in Bunbury
When considering dry needling treatment, it’s essential to select a qualified healthcare professional with specialised expertise in this technique. While it offers numerous benefits, these outcomes are best realised when administered by a skilled expert. Ensure your practitioner holds the necessary qualifications and experience, such as physiotherapists or other healthcare providers registered with relevant health boards. This ensures you receive safe, effective care tailored to your needs.
Brecken Health Bunbury employs highly skilled physiotherapists who can provide safe and effective dry needling treatments. If you’re considering dry needling, consult with a qualified healthcare professional to determine if it’s the right treatment for you. Get in touch with us today to book an appointment with our physiotherapy team.