What is Dry Needling?

Dry needling is a form of therapy involving the insertion of thin filiform needles into the body. It is based on Western principles and has been used by physiotherapists, chiropractors and other medical practitioners to treat a variety of conditions. It has been used as an effective treatment for chronic pain, headaches and muscle restrictions in order to help alleviate a variety of symptoms. Dry needling is also known as intramuscular stimulation, myofascial trigger point therapy and much more.

How Does Dry Needling Work?

Dry needling is based on creating small lesions in the muscle tissue which stimulate the nervous system. This decreases pain and muscle tension, increases range of motion and aids in healing. When dry needling is applied, thin filiform needles are inserted into the skin and muscle tissue. These needles are inserted at the points where the skin and muscle tissues connect and are usually done in a shallow fashion. Once inserted, the needles are moved around, often stimulated by electric nerve stimulation, to increase circulation and the healing process.

What Conditions Does Dry Needling Treat?

Dry needling has been used to treat a variety of musculoskeletal complaints such as: headaches, neck and upper back pain, rotator cuff issues, tennis elbow, frozen shoulder, hip pain, lower back pain, sciatica, sacroiliac joint pain, hamstring strains, IT band syndrome and achilles tendonitis. It is considered to be an effective treatment for muscle spasms and restrictions. Dry needling can also be used to treat a variety of non-musculoskeletal issues such as: anxiety, depression, stress, TMJ disorder and temporomandibular joint dysfunction.

Dry needling has been found to be an effective treatment for a variety of conditions and has helped many people reduce their pain, improve their range of motion and increase their quality of life. It can be combined with other treatments such as massage, myofascial release and physical therapy to maximize the potential benefits.