What is Dry Needling?
Many people think that dry needling and acupuncture are more or less the same, but they are actually two very different treatments. While acupuncture is based in eastern medicine and can involve several different parts of the body during a single session, dry needling is a new, science-based intervention that targets a specific area.
During a dry needling treatment, fine needles are inserted into painful knots in the muscles, tendons and ligaments or nerves in order to stimulate a healing response. It is used to help manage a variety of different chronic pain-causing conditions, including:
- TMJ
- Osteoarthritis
- Neck pain
- Back pain
- Carpal tunnel
- Plantar fasciitis
- Headaches
- Tennis elbow
- Shin splints
- Shoulder impingement
How Does Dry Needling Work?
Once the needle is carefully placed by a certified dry needling therapist, the tiny pricks stimulate the affected area and remind the body to heal the surrounding tissue. There are several methods therapists can use to achieve different results and reach deeper muscles such as alternating depth, twisting and movement.
If you’re intimidated by the word “needle,” it’s important to know that most sessions are very mild in terms of pain. In fact, most individuals don’t even bleed unless a deep technique is used.
Success rates vary greatly depending on the condition being treated as well as the end goal; however, it’s not a one-time treatment. In order for dry needling to be effective, you must continue receiving the treatment in addition to other therapies.
If you’re interested in trying dry needling treatment, you must receive a therapy referral from your physician. For questions, please contact Hunt Regional Medical Center Therapy Services at 903-408-1886.
