Dry needling is a type of physical therapy that uses thin, solid needles to stimulate specific points on the body, known as trigger points. The needles are inserted into the skin in the area of the trigger point, and then manipulated to create a small injury to the tissue. This injury triggers a healing response in the body, which can help to reduce pain and improve function.
Dry needling is based on the principles of traditional Chinese acupuncture, but it is not the same as acupuncture. Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medical practice that uses needles to stimulate specific points on the body to balance the flow of energy, or Qi, throughout the body. Dry needling, on the other hand, is based on Western anatomy and physiology, and is used to treat specific musculoskeletal conditions such as chronic pain, muscle tension, and muscle spasms.
The use of dry needling in physical therapy is growing in popularity, as it has been found to be effective in treating a wide range of conditions, including:
- Chronic pain: Dry needling can help to reduce pain and improve function in patients with chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia, myofascial pain syndrome, and tension headaches.
- Musculoskeletal injuries: Dry needling can help to reduce pain and improve function in patients with musculoskeletal injuries such as sprains, strains, and tendonitis.
- Movement impairments: Dry needling can be used to improve movement impairments such as limited range of motion, muscle imbalances, and muscle weakness.
- Nerve impingements: Dry needling can be used to relieve pain and improve function in patients with nerve impingements such as carpal tunnel syndrome and sciatica.
- Post-surgical rehabilitation: Dry needling can be used to speed up recovery and improve outcomes in patients who have undergone surgery.
During a dry needling session, a physical therapist will insert needles into the trigger points in the affected muscle or tissue. The needles are then manipulated to create a small injury to the tissue. This injury triggers a healing response in the body, which can help to reduce pain and improve function.
Dry needling is generally considered safe when performed by a trained and licensed physical therapist. However, there is a risk of bleeding, infection, and injury to surrounding tissues.
In conclusion, dry needling is a type of physical therapy that uses thin, solid needles to stimulate specific points on the body, known as trigger points. Dry needling is based on the principles of Western anatomy and psychiatry, and is used to treat specific musculoskeletal conditions such as chronic pain, muscle tension, and muscle spasms. It can also be used to improve movement impairments, nerve impingements, and post-surgical rehabilitation. Dry needling is generally considered safe when performed by a trained and licensed physical therapist, but there is a risk of bleeding, infection, and injury to surrounding tissues.