Dry needling is a targeted therapeutic technique that helps release muscle tension, relieve pain, and improve movement. It is mainly used to treat trigger points – small, painful bundles in the muscle that can be a source of local or referred pain.
Like acupuncture, which is based on the principles of traditional Chinese medicine, dry needling draws on knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and neuroscience. It is commonly used by physical therapists as part of a comprehensive musculoskeletal treatment.
The physiotherapist inserts a very thin sterile needle directly into the tight spot in the muscle. The needle mechanically disrupts the contracted muscle fibers, releasing the trigger point. The result is rapid pain relief, improved range of motion, and better muscle function.
The procedure only takes a few minutes and may be slightly uncomfortable (e.g. a brief "twitch" of the muscle), but most people experience subsequent relief or reduction in pain very soon.
Dry needling is used for a wide range of problems, especially when the cause is muscle tension or overload:
(Dry-needling)
Laser, shock wave
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