What is Dry Needling?
A technique gaining popularity in the realm of physical therapy is something called dry needling. This western medicine technique appears similar to the eastern medicine technique known as acupuncture, but these two therapies provide distinct health benefits for physical and occupational therapy patients. Dry needling uses short or long, thin stainless-steel needles to penetrate deep muscle layers beneath the skin. This can be done on many areas of the body including the back, neck, hips, or shoulders. Now, the specific term “dry” is used in the name, because these needles do not release any fluid into the body.
What are the Benefits of Dry Needling?
Overall, the objective of dry needling is to release tight bands of muscle, also known as muscle knots or trigger points. By releasing these tight bundles within the muscle, the patient will experience a great deal of pain relief and increased mobility.
- Dry needling inactivates trigger points, making it difficult for tightness in the muscles to form.
- Dry needling provides relief from pain and stiffness within the muscles.
- Dry needling helps to improve the flexibility and range of motion around joints.
How is Dry Needling Done?
A physical therapist will begin by assessing the patients range of motion and sanitizing the area where the needles will be placed. Once these fine needles are inserted into the muscular tissue, the physical therapist will move the needle around the area of tightness swiftly with an in and out motion or twist. Typically, the patient experiences little discomfort during the process. By moving the needle in and out of the muscle tissue, the needle provides that area of the muscle with a specific stimulus to respond to. This process essentially stimulates trigger points, which eventually relaxes the muscle and provides relief to the physical therapy patient.
Imagine being able to get a two hour long, deep tissue massage, but in less than 20 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Dry Needling the same as Acupuncture?
- Dry needling and acupuncture are similar in that they both involve the insertion of needles into the skin, but they are fundamentally different in terms of their origins, philosophies, and practices.
- Dry needling is a Western medicine technique that focuses on relieving pain and improves overall health of tissue by targeting myofascial trigger points—tense areas within the muscle.
- Acupuncture is an ancient practice in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It aims to balance the flow of energy in the body and is thought to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes by releasing endorphins.
- Both practices use thin, stainless steel needles and may help with pain management, their approaches and underlying theories are different.
- Dry needling and acupuncture are similar in that they both involve the insertion of needles into the skin, but they are fundamentally different in terms of their origins, philosophies, and practices.
2. How long is Dry Needling?
- When dry needling is performed, the needles stay in for a few minutes. The physical therapist will move the needle to trigger a response and then remove it. Dry needling sessions are usually done as part of a larger plan of care.
3. Does Dry Needling hurt?
- Dry needling doesn’t hurt, but you might feel some discomfort and soreness. When the needles are first applied, you’ll feel a prick sensation. Once it reaches a trigger point, the muscle might twitch as a response to the needle being inserted. The muscle goes through a lot of stimulus, causing it to be sore, but improves tension and tightness thus reducing pain. Staying hydrated helps reduce soreness and discomfort.
Optimal Therapy’s Services
Optimal Therapy has several physical therapists that specialize in dry needling. They service the Las Vegas community at various locations, which are available on our website. Ask your health care provider if this therapy would be appropriate for you and come give this technique a try!
If you need to schedule a physical therapy evaluation to find out how physical therapy can help you reach your goals, contact us.
To schedule an appointment call 702-564-6712 or click here to see a list of our locations.
Optimal Therapy is unique and one of the best choices for your physical and occupational therapy needs. Our team of highly-trained physical and occupational therapists are all patient focused and passionate about delivering a great experience every time. We offer many physical therapy services including fall-prevention, pelvic health, pediatrics, geriatrics, surgery recovery, dry needling, joint mobility and more! We also provide Telehealth appointments to meet you exactly where you are at.
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