Every day you wake up suffering from the same pain and stiffness. It seems like you have tried just about everything to make it better. If this sounds like you, you may want to take a deeper look at dry needling.
What is “Dry Needling”?
Dry needling uses “dry needles,” meaning no solution is injected into the skin. A very thin needle is inserted into the muscle’s trigger point. This typically causes the muscle to twitch which in turn causes the trigger point to release. Electrical stimulation (an electrical current) can also be used through a handheld device while the needle is inserted into the muscle. During the dry needling process, with or without electrical stimulation, you may feel a deep ache or cramping sensation.
What should I expect afterward?
After dry needling is performed by your PT, you should expect to have increased range of motion and decreased pain and tightness. Your muscles may feel sore like they just got a really good workout. Stretches and strengthening exercises will then be added to your treatment and home exercise program to maintain the effects from dry needling.
Some examples of conditions that dry needling could be used on are:
- neck, back and shoulder pain
- tendonitis of the elbow
- headaches/migraines
- hip bursitis
- Achilles tendonitis and plantar fasciitis
Content Provided by Melissa Edwards, PTA
