Over the past 15 years, dry needling has become extremely popular. This technique is also known as myofascial trigger point therapy. Therapists use thin, solid filiform needles to treat dysfunctions of skeletal muscle and connective tissue, minimize peripheral nociception (pain), and improve structural or functional damage. The release is often associated with a muscle twitch. Easing of your trigger points may improve flexibility and increase range of motion. Trigger points may develop during occupational, recreational or sports activities when the muscle use exceeds the its capacity to handle stress, which then can disturb normal recovery.

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Are needles re-used?

Never. Sterile needles are opened, used and disposed of in front of the patient. Therapists take cleanliness, hygiene, and safety very seriously.

 

Is dry needling painful?

Often, patients will experience a mild, dull ache during treatment and up to 24 hours post-treatment.  Some discomfort is experienced during the rapid ‘twitch response’ but this discomfort is minimal and lasts only for a few seconds. It is normal to have mild to moderate muscle soreness after dry needling treatment.  Drinking lots of water, stretching, moving your body and heating the sore muscles can reduce the duration of the soreness.  In some patients, side effects include mild muscle soreness and bruising.

 

What's the difference between acupuncture and dry needling?

Acupuncture derives from Eastern Chinese medicine and the needles are inserted into points studied on the body’s meridians. The fundamental belief of acupuncture is that illness is the result of blocked or interrupted chi. Chi provides your body with healing energy. Acupuncture seeks to remove these blockages and return your energy flow to a state of balance.

Unlike acupuncture, dry needling is a western technique that uses an “in-and-out” technique, which means the needle does not stay in the selected area for long. The needle is inserted to release a trigger point and moved in and out of the skin.