Dry Needling
What is Dry Needling?
Dry needling is a physical therapy technique performed by a skilled, specially trained Physical Therapist for the treatment of pain and movement impairments. This technique uses a “dry” needle, one without medication or injection. The thin needle penetrates the skin and treats underlying trigger points in the muscle.
Dry needling is not acupuncture, a practice based on traditional Chinese medicine and performed by an acupuncturist. Dry needling follows evidence-based guidelines, recommended “point” locations, and dosages for the treatment of specific conditions.
What is a Trigger Point?
A trigger point is a tight band or contracture in a muscle fiber. Trigger points can be tender to touch, restrict range of motion, refer pain to other areas, or cause compensation in function. When dry needling is applied to a trigger point, it can decrease tightness, increase blood flow and reduce both local and referred pain.
What kind of needles are used?
Dry needling involves a thin filiform needle that penetrates the skin and stimulates the underlying myofascial trigger point. The needle allows your Physical Therapist to target tissues that are injured.
Your Physical Therapist will wear gloves and the appropriate personal protective equipment when dry needling. The needles are sterile, one time use and disposed of in a medical sharps collection container.
What are the goals of Dry Needling?
Dry needling treats muscle tissue and its goals are to:
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Reduce pain
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Inactivate trigger points
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Restore function
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Improve range of motion
It rarely is a standalone procedure and is typically one technique that is part of a larger treatment plan that includes other physical therapy intervention such as stretching and exercises.
What conditions does Dry Needling treat?
