What is Dry Needling
Dry Needling is an advanced needling technique for the treatment of myofascial pain using a very thin, single-use, sterile filiform needle to release a taut band of muscle or tissue, typically referred as a trigger point.
Dry Needling is based upon Western medical concepts, requiring a physical therapy examination to determine the specific anatomic regions of the body involved that may be contributing to the client/patient’s diagnosis or symptoms. Dry Needling is not acupuncture, which is derived from Traditional Chinese Medicine. Dry Needling is a Western treatment technique based on anatomy and physiology medical principles.
Dry Needling can be performed by an experienced physical therapist who has received specialized training in Dry Needling techniques. Your physical therapist will determine the appropriateness of the utilization of Dry Needling in conjunction with other treatment techniques as necessary to address your particular symptom or diagnosis. A specific physician referral is not required in most cases for Dry Needling to be performed.
Benefits of Dry Needling
- Decrease pain
- Improve muscle function
- Improve range of motion, flexibility and strength
Who could benefit from Dry Needling
Anyone experiencing neck, back, shoulder, hip, knee, ankle, temporomandibular pain, headaches, shin splints, tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, carpal tunnel syndrome, and overuse / sports-related injuries.