DRY NEEDLING

Dry Needling is a very successful medical treatment, which uses very thin needles without any medication (a dry needle) to achieve its aims. Dry Needling is used to treat pain and dysfunction caused by muscle problems, sinus trouble, headaches, and some nerve problems. It is not Acupuncture. Acupuncture is part of traditional Chinese medicine, whereas dry needling is a western medical technique that requires a medical diagnosis, and carries no spiritual link as ‘acupuncture’ can do.

Dry needling works by changing the way your body senses pain (neurological effects), and by helping the body to heal stubborn muscle spasm associated with trigger points (myofascial effects). Physicians Dr. Travell and Simons defined the myofascial trigger point (the point at which the dry needle is inserted) as a ‘hyperirritable spot in skeletal muscle’. The spot is painful on compression and can give rise to referred pain, referred tenderness, motor dysfunction and, on rare occasions, autonomal phenomena, for instance; teary, happy, sweaty or cold. All which fade quickly.

Your therapist has been specifically trained in various needling techniques. The therapist will choose a needle length and thickness appropriate to your condition and body size and then insert it through the skin at the appropriate place. You will feel a small pin-prick. Depending on the needle chosen you may feel a muscle ache and a muscle twitch. These are all good reactions and it means that you will get good relief from your symptoms.