Dry needling, also known as trigger point needling, is the process of treating knotted areas throughout the body that may be causing pain due to high sensitivity. On a more extreme scale, some trigger points may also cause pain throughout other parts of the body. Dry needling is a form of treatment where a solid needle is injected into the tissue to modify the way that the brain and the muscles communicate with one another. This is because there is a direct pathway between the brain and the muscles whereby feelings throughout areas of the body can transmit to the brain, stimulating a high sense of tension, pain and discomfort at times of injury.
During a dry needling session, a patient may experience several different sensations such as muscle soreness, aching and muscle twitching. This, however, is considered a good sign as it signifies a response of the muscles. During dry needling, there is no set time or depth that needles should be inserted for. However, higher degrees of pain or reoccurring pain are those that usually require longer periods of treatment. This means that needles may be inserted for a few seconds or for up to 10 minutes.
What types of pain can dry needling treat?
Dry needling is usually used in conjunction with other types of treatment; this can include manual therapy, massage therapy and exercise. As dry needling is used to reduce tension and tightness it is a great way to improve range of motion and can be used to treat;
Joint problems
Disk Problems
Tendinitis
Migraines
Tension-type headaches
Temporomandibular joint disorders
Whiplash
Motion Disorders (Such as carpal tunnel)
Spinal problems
Pelvic pain
Night cramps
Phantom pain
Post-herpetic neuralgia (pain after shingles)
Are there limitations to dry needling?
While there is no specific limitation to dry needling, it is recommended that those who are afraid of needles and pregnant women do not receive dry needling treatment. As well, those on blood thinners or who have recently had surgery should consult a doctor before seeking this type of treatment.
Here at Bankstown Physiotherapy, we have a number of physiotherapists who specialise in dry needling. To find out more, you can contact us at 9793 3119, or visit book online!
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