Dry Needling

What is Dry Needling?

Dry Needling is an effective therapy to treat muscular tension and spasm. It is called “Dry” Needling because there is no medication injected. The needle itself and the effects it produces within the tissue are the treatment. 

Dry Needling uses a very small, solid filament needle, which is inserted in a contracted painful knotted muscle (trigger point) to create a local twitch reflex. This is both diagnostic and therapeutic! The local twitch response can cause brief discomfort, feeling like an electric shock or cramping sensation. Most patients describe this as uncomfortable, but not painful. This can cause short term soreness and/or achiness. The results include reduced muscle spasms/contractions, reduced pain, improved joint mobility/flexibility and improved athletic performance. 

The physiology of it: When an injury occurs from repetitive use or acute trauma, inflammation will be produced from the damaged tissues.  The damaged tissues will also go into a protective tension state or contracture to guard against further damage from using the injured tissue.  This contracture and inflammation inhibit microcirculation, which limits both the oxygen rich blood reaching the injury and the waste products from leaving the injury.  The injury site becomes hypoxic (decreased in oxygen) which stimulates the body to produce fibroblasts, a cell that produces fibrosis or scar tissue.  This fibrosis and scarring builds up around the muscles and tissues limiting the tissues ability to fully function (lengthen/shorten) and can also cause compression and irritation of nerves. This can limit function and cause pain. 

Dry needling is an advanced therapeutic technique designed to treat pain, enhance mobility, and promote faster recovery. This treatment involves the use of thin, sterile needles inserted into trigger points, or "knots" within muscles, to release tension and improve function. It’s a highly effective approach to addressing musculoskeletal issues caused by injuries, overuse, or chronic conditions. Unlike acupuncture, which is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, dry needling is based on modern scientific principles and focuses on addressing neuromuscular dysfunction.

How Does Dry Needling Work?
 

When the needles are precisely inserted into the affected area, they stimulate a natural healing response in your body. This includes:

• Osteoblastic Activity: Dry needling encourages the production of osteoblasts, which are essential for bone healing and repair.

• Repairing Tears and Injuries: This technique promotes tissue regeneration, helping to repair small tears in muscles, tendons, and ligaments.

• Frozen Shoulder Relief: Dry needling is particularly effective in improving and releasing frozen shoulders by loosening tight tissues and enhancing mobility.

• Improved Movement: By reducing adhesions and relieving muscle tension, dry needling restores range of motion and improves overall movement.

Benefits of Dry Needling

• Pain Relief: Targets trigger points to release built-up tension and alleviate discomfort.

• Faster Recovery: Stimulates the body’s natural repair mechanisms, accelerating healing from injuries or chronic pain.

• Restored Function: Helps you regain lost range of motion and perform daily activities with ease.

• Preventative Care: Addresses underlying muscular imbalances before they lead to more serious issues.

Your Journey to Better Movement Starts Here

Whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing chronic pain, or simply seeking to improve your mobility, dry needling can be a transformative step toward your goals. Regular sessions can maintain your body’s functionality, prevent injuries, and ensure you move freely and confidently every day.

Ready to Experience Relief?
Don’t let pain or stiffness hold you back. Schedule your dry needling session today and take the first step toward a healthier, more active life. Call us now or book online to start moving better, faster!

Book Your Appointment Today!