Dry Needling

A technique of inserting fine filament needles into the muscle in the region of a “trigger point”. This stimulates the body’s own pain relief system, without using drugs. Dry needling originated from the model of Chinese acupuncture, which has been used safely for more than 2000 years. It was not until new neurophysiology concepts and techniques were identified that it was introduced.

Now, medical doctors and allied health professionals, with a sound background in anatomy and neurophysiology are using this technique all around the world for treating musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction.

There are similarities with the type of needles, but significant differences between the theory and technique. Acupuncture follows ancient rules and beliefs, focusing on balancing the flow of energy in the body.

Dry needling specifically deals with “trigger points” or tender spots due to sensitive nerve endings. The trigger point site also causes the muscle to shorten, which in itself can become painful and lead to dysfunction.

These trigger points form within the muscle, fascia, tendons, ligaments, and periosteum.

The aim of this treatment is to achieve a local “ twitch response” to release muscle tension and pain and restore normal muscle function. This form of treatment is effective for acute or chronic pain of neuropathic origin with very few side effects.

The needles used are very thin and most people do not even feel them penetrate the skin. However, if the muscle has trigger points that are sensitive and the muscle is shortened you may feel a very quick (less than a second) muscle cramp sensation known as the ‘the twitch response’.

Patients soon learn to familiarise themselves with this sensation and even welcome it as deactivating the trigger point, reducing pain, restoring normal length and function of the muscle, and releasing the body’s own natural opioid which causes a relaxed feeling.

Yes, we only use sterile, disposable needles.

Side effects are very rare. Most patients only report general muscle soreness, which can last anywhere from a few hours up to a few days. Therefore you can carry on with your normal daily activities.

Recommendations may include applying heat over the area, gentle stretching, and modifications of activities if necessary.

The podiatrists at Well Heeled Podiatry are trained in dry needling and can treat your musculoskeletal pain, and neuropathic pain, and assist with your dysfunction.

Related Topics

• Foot Mobilisation Therapy
• Shock Wave Therapy
• Tool-Assisted Sports Massage
• Prolotherapy
• 3 Crucial Steps to Fix Foot Pain
• Orthotic Therapy

Please call us today to make an appointment or discuss your dry needling treatment options.