Dry Needling

dry needling

What is Dry Needling?

Move Forward Physiotherapists are trained in dry needling techniques that can be used independently or as a important component of your physiotherapy treatment. Dry needling is the insertion of filament (acupuncture) needles into the soft tissues of the body to treat musculo-skeletal pain and dysfunction. The term “dry needling” refers to the use of acupuncture needles within western medicine practices, which is different to “acupuncture” which is based on oriental medical practices. Dry needling is establishing more evidence and the benefits more greatly known as Physiotherapists refine the skill.

Trigger point dry needling

How does it work?

The difference between acupuncture and dry needling is most commonly because dry needling focuses on myofascial trigger points using acupuncture needles to deactivate the muscle spasm. With this method, the acupuncture needle is inserted directly into the trigger point and may be manipulated to assist with decreasing muscle spasm. These techniques are usually applied close to the area of pain. Research into the change in muscle activity following dry needling applied directly to the trigger points shows positive effects in the surrounding tissue. “Traditional acupuncture” is less steeped in research focusing on age old theories of body meridians.

Dry needling plus

Other Types of Needling

Another form of dry needling, Dry Needling Plus (dnp), involves needling specific tissues identified by means of skilled assessment of range and palpation of tissues. With dnp techniques, acupuncture needles may be inserted into the deep connective tissues but also applied lightly down an entire limb. Often the needles may be inserted widely, sometimes quite a distance from the area of pain. dnp is highly effective in treating musculo-skeletal pain, neural restriction, and can also significantly assist people with chronic wide spread pain. Some clients report improved sleep patterns following wide application of dnp techniques.

When is needling effective?

Dry needling is effective for a wide range of conditions from muscle tears, lower back pain, TMJ dysfunction, wry necks right through to the common rolled ankle.

Contact one of our convenient Locations for more advice regarding Dry Needling.