What Is Dry Needling?
Dry needling is a therapeutic technique commonly used by physical therapists to treat muscle pain and tightness. It involves the insertion of thin, solid needles into specific trigger points in the muscles, which are known to cause pain and discomfort. Unlike acupuncture, which is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, dry needling focuses solely on relieving musculoskeletal pain through a more direct approach. The needles used in dry needling stimulate muscle fibers, prompting a response that helps to reduce muscle tension and promote healing.
By targeting trigger points tight knots within muscles the therapy aims to release the tension and improve blood flow, allowing the muscle to function more effectively. This can be particularly helpful for people dealing with chronic pain, sports injuries, or conditions like fibromyalgia. While it may cause mild discomfort during the procedure, the results can lead to significant relief from pain and increased range of motion. Many patients find dry needling to be an effective addition to their rehabilitation process, often combining it with other treatments such as physical therapy or stretching exercises for optimal results.
