Dry Needling: An Effective Modality For Pain Relief & Recovery
When addressing different modalities to help with pain or dysfunction, physiotherapists and chiropractors regularly resort to using a dry needling modality as a very effective way to alleviate pain and promote recovery. Despite sounding intimidating to some people, this form of treatment is a safe and effective method when applied correctly.
What Exactly Is Dry Needling?
Dry needling involves the insertion of very thin needles into muscles, tendons, ligaments and trigger points without injecting any kind of substance into the skin (hence the term “dry”). Unlike acupuncture, which targets meridians and generic points based on symptoms described, this specific form of treatment focuses on stimulating tissue and healing in targeted areas of the body.
How Does Dry Needling Work?
Dry needling operates on the principle of neuromuscular modulation, by targeting active or latent trigger points, which are localised knots/tight bands within muscles. This type of treatment prompts a range of physiological responses, including the release of biochemicals that alleviate pain, improving blood flow to the target tissue, and restoring muscle function in an area by stimulating that muscle group. Put more simply, it kickstarts the body’s natural healing processes.
Conditions Treated
The versatility of dry needling makes it suitable for a wide range of conditions, including:
- Musculoskeletal Pain: Dry needling can offer significant relief by addressing underlying muscular issues for chronic back pain, tension headaches, plantar fasciitis, tendon issues, muscle aches, or sports injuries.
- Athletic Injuries: Athletes often turn to dry needling to accelerate recovery from strains, sprains, and overuse injuries, enabling them to return to play as soon as safely possible.
- Myofascial Dysfunction: Individuals who suffer from myofascial pain syndrome or fibromyalgia often benefit from the release of trigger points, causing pain reduction while improving quality of life.
Benefits Of Dry Needling
- Pain Relief: By deactivating trigger points and releasing muscle tension, dry needling provides pain relief, sometimes immediately, other times after a couple of days of generalised muscle soreness post-needling.
- Improved Range of Motion: Restricted range of movement secondary to tight muscles or scar tissue can be significantly improved with dry needling, restoring mobility and function.
- Enhanced Recovery: When integrated into a comprehensive health plan, dry needling accelerates the healing process, allowing patients to return to daily activities as soon as possible.
Secure The Treatment You Need With Spinal & Sports Care!
In the dynamic landscape of health care, dry needling stands out as a powerful tool for promoting healing and restoring function. Dry needling modality improves range of motion, stimulates muscles, and improves healing rate post-injury, and is a fantastic adjunct to physiotherapy and chiropractic care.
Consider consulting with our team at Spinal & Sports Care to develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your needs. Reach out to our physiotherapists and chiropractors at Spinal & Sports Care today to receive the care and support you need today.