If you’ve ever visited a physiotherapist, you’ve likely come across the term “dry needling.” This technique, which has its roots in ancient Chinese acupuncture and has been in use since the 1940s, is gaining popularity as a means to alleviate pain and discomfort. At Elevate Physio and Health, some of our experts integrate dry needling into their treatments to help patients overcome various aches and pains. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the world of dry needling to provide you with a better understanding of this therapeutic approach.

What is Dry Needling?

Dry needling is a treatment offered by healthcare professionals, including physio and Myotherapists, with the primary goal of relieving pain and muscle tightness. It is essential to undergo a physical assessment to determine whether dry needling is an appropriate option for your specific needs. Dry needling is rarely recommended as a standalone treatment but is instead used in conjunction with other therapies like exercise and Soft tissue modalities.

The dry needling process involves the insertion of disposable sterile stainless steel needles into trigger points on the body. These trigger points are areas of tight muscles or specific spots that may be the source of your pain. Your physiotherapist will identify these trigger points through a thorough assessment and diagnosis.

Once the needle is inserted into the targeted area, it remains in place for a short period. Relief can vary in terms of timing, ranging from seconds to hours after the procedure. It’s important to note that dry needling is usually just one component of a broader treatment plan, which may also include soft tissue massage and exercise.

How Does Dry Needling Work?

1. Loosening Myofascial Trigger Points: Dry needling is believed to help reduce the accumulation of acetylcholine, a chemical responsible for muscle contractions. By minimizing this chemical build up, it can relax tight muscle areas.
2. Improving Blood Flow: Dry needling can enhance blood circulation and oxygen delivery to trigger points, thereby promoting the recovery process.
3. Blocking Pain Signals: It may play a role in reducing or blocking pain signals that travel from the source of pain to the brain.

Does Dry Needling Hurt?

In general, dry needling is tolerable, although you may experience some initial discomfort when the needle is inserted into the target area. However, this sensation usually fades over time. If you encounter sharp pain or soreness, it’s crucial to communicate this to your therapist, as some regions may be too sensitive for dry needling at that moment.

What Does Dry Needling Help With?

Dry needling can be employed to provide immediate relief for various conditions, including:

• Nerve pain
• Lower back pain
• Neck pain
• Sciatica
• Soft tissue conditions and injuries (e.g., strains, muscular tightness, etc.)
• Muscle guarding
• Knots and tight muscles
• Painful flare-ups of long-term conditions (e.g., osteoarthritis, lower back pain, etc.)
• Shoulder pain
• Neck-related headaches and migraines
• Tennis Elbow

Is Dry Needling Safe?

Dry needling is considered a safe and non-invasive procedure when administered by trained physiotherapists. They will always conduct assessments before performing the procedure. While side effects are rare and often minor, some potential side effects to be aware of include temporary discomfort, bruising, and minimal bleeding. More significant side effects, such as infection or allergic reactions, are exceedingly rare but can be minimized through safe practices, hygiene, therapist experience, and careful choice of treatment areas.

Before undergoing dry needling, it’s crucial to inform your therapist if you are pregnant, have metal allergies, are taking blood thinners, or have had adverse reactions to needles in the past. Your therapist will evaluate the risks to determine whether the procedure is safe for you.

Potential Side Effects?

While most individuals experience no side effects when dry needling is performed correctly, some potential side effects may include:

• Drowsiness, fatigue, and sleepiness
• Small amounts of bleeding or bruising
• Post-treatment pain
• Vasovagal episodes (fainting)
• Nausea
• Muscle ache around the treatment area

Is There a Difference between Dry Needling and Acupuncture?

One common question that often arises is the difference between dry needling and acupuncture. While there are some similarities, such as using sterile stainless steel needles to alleviate pain, there are distinct differences:

Similarities

• Both therapies use disposable and sterile stainless steel needles.
• They aim to relieve pain and discomfort.
• Practitioners typically conduct assessments before commencing treatment.
• Specific triggers or myofascial points on the body are targeted.

Differences

• The location of dry needling is based on Western medicine principles, utilizing anatomy and physiology. In contrast, acupuncture is rooted in ancient Chinese medicine, targeting specific meridians.
• Dry needling is usually a component of a broader treatment plan. Physiotherapists often incorporate other therapies such as exercise, lifestyle strategies, massage, and electrotherapy.

What’s Next?

It’s crucial to recognize that dry needling is just a part of your overall rehabilitation plan. To achieve the best recovery, it’s essential to follow your therapist’s guidance and adhere to all prescribed exercises. If you have any further questions about dry needling, don’t hesitate to consult with your therapist.

If you are experiencing any of the conditions listed above and are interested in trying dry needling to see if it can benefit you, simply reach out to our reception team at 03 9836 1126. They will be happy to schedule an appointment with one of our skilled therapists who can incorporate dry needling into your personalized treatment plan. Your journey to pain relief and improved well-being awaits!