Dry needling is a relatively new, minimally invasive treatment approach that employs a concept and tools (filiform needles) quite similar to those used in acupuncture. The key differences lie in their goals and principles: dry needling follows evidence-based principles and is essentially used by physical therapists for easing muscular pain, soreness, and tightness.
If you’ve heard of dry needling but are not quite sure how exactly it could benefit you, here’s what you need to know about this new trend.
Effectively Releases Trigger Points
Dry needling targets taut bands of muscles referred to as trigger points (more commonly known as muscle knots). Trigger points have various potential causes, such as trauma to the tissue, overuse, prolonged bed rest, stress and tension, and poor posture. They can cause pain that can radiate to other areas of the body. For instance, a trigger point in the upper back area may cause headache, neck pain, back pain, and/or jaw pain. Dry needling works by stimulating and releasing muscle knots, thereby reducing tightness and pain, and improving muscle flexibility.
Reduces Reliance on Medications
Dry needling is becoming an integral component of any pain management program because of its efficacy to address both acute and chronic pain, helping reduce a person’s reliance on medications. It is often used as an adjunct to other therapeutic modalities, such as hands-on manual therapy, massage, exercise, and heat therapy, for optimal outcomes. It can also be used for addressing latent trigger points, which are not yet causing obvious pain but can become problematic if left untreated.
A Well-Tolerated Procedure with Very Minimal Side Effects
Dry needling is a generally well-tolerated procedure with very minor side effects, such as soreness and discomfort, which subside just within a few hours after the treatment. It has very few absolute contraindications. If you have a metal allergy, compromised immune system, and existing infection, consult a physical therapist or your orthopedic doctor to find out if this is a suitable treatment option for your myofascial pain.
Dry Needling in Austin, TX
For top-notch physical therapy services in Austin, Round Rock, Manor, Pflugerville, Cedar Park, Bee Cove, and Hutto, visit us at Endeavor Physical Therapy & Wellness. Dry needling is one of the many innovative treatment modalities we use to deliver the best patient outcomes for the vast range of musculoskeletal problems.
To learn more about dry needling and whether it is right for you, consult one of our physical therapists. Please contact our main office today at (833) 215-9272, or use this appointment request form.
