Dry Needling

Dry needling is a medical technique performed to help reduce pain and muscle tension and to help improve mobility in a specific area of the body. The name “dry needling” is used because there is no medication involved. This technique uses sterile acupuncture needles that are inserted through the skin into parts of the muscles that are over contracted, known as trigger points. The needle causes a release of this muscle contraction, which will decrease pain and increase range of motion in the specific area being treated.

The practice of dry needling is very safe as the doctor must undergo intense training to become certified and already has vast knowledge on the anatomy of the human body so they know where to properly insert the needles.

What types of conditions can dry needling help with?

This technique is used to treat a variety of musculoskeletal problems including, but not limited to:

  • Headaches
  • Neck and back pain
  • Tendonitis
  • Muscle spasm
  • Sciatica
  • Hip and knee pain
  • Tennis and golfers’ elbow
  • Overuse injuries and many more.
  • Benefits of dry needling
  • Decrease pain/tension to the area
  • Release of tight muscles
  • Prevent future injury
  • Faster recovery
  • Increased range of motion

 

Does Dry Needling hurt?

Most patients report little to no discomfort with the insertion of the needles. The doctors are trained to make the treatment as comfortable as possible. However, at times you may experience what is known as a “twitch response”, which often feels like a quick muscle cramp or ache. Although uncomfortable at times, this is a normal and often temporary response that occurs because an area of dysfunction is being contacted.

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