At Fortius Allied Health we are big believers in dry needling and how it can support your body. We do hear a few common myths about the technique so here is our over on the what, why and how!
What is dry needling?
Dry needling is a therapeutic technique that involves inserting thin, filiform needles into trigger points in muscles, tendons, ligaments, or near nerves to help alleviate pain and improve range of motion.
Unlike traditional acupuncture, which is based on Chinese medicine principles, dry needling is based on Western anatomy and neurophysiology.
What is Dry Needling and What Can You Expect at Your Next Appointment?
During a dry needling session, our team will insert a thin, sterile needle into a trigger point in your muscle, tendon, ligament, or near a nerve. The needle may be moved up and down, side to side, or left in place for a few minutes. The goal is to elicit a twitch response, which is a brief contraction of the muscle, followed by a release of tension and increased blood flow to the area.
Dry needling is often used in conjunction with other therapies, such as exercise and manual therapy to help maximise its effects.
What Injuries Can Dry Needling Support?
Dry needling can be beneficial for a variety of injuries and conditions, including:
- Neck and back pain
- Headaches and migraines
- Shoulder pain
- Tennis elbow
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Knee pain
- Plantar fasciitis
- Sciatica
Dry needling can also be used to address trigger points and tightness in muscles that may be contributing to other conditions, such as poor posture, limited range of motion, and muscle imbalances.
Can Dry Needling Prevent Injuries?
While dry needling is primarily used as a treatment for existing injuries or conditions, it may also have a preventive effect. By addressing trigger points and muscle tension, dry needling can help improve biomechanics and reduce the risk of injury. Additionally, regular dry needling sessions may help improve muscle flexibility and strength, which can further reduce the risk of injury.
What Does Research Say About the Positive Health Effects of Dry Needling?
Research has shown that dry needling can have several positive health effects, including:
- Pain relief: Dry needling has been shown to be effective in reducing pain in a variety of conditions, including neck pain, back pain, and knee osteoarthritis.
- Improved range of motion: Dry needling can help improve range of motion and muscle flexibility, particularly in areas with tightness or trigger points.
- Reduced reliance on medication: By providing pain relief and improving function, dry needling may help reduce reliance on pain medications.
Our final word!
Dry needling is a safe and effective therapeutic technique that can help alleviate pain, improve range of motion, and support overall health and wellness.
If you are considering dry needling, chat to our friendly and experienced team at Fortius Allied Health who can assess your individual needs and develop a customized treatment plan for you. With proper care and attention, dry needling can be a powerful tool for supporting your health and wellbeing!
