Dry needling, also known as trigger point dry needling and myofascial trigger dry needling, is a popular modern treatment designed to treat myofascial pain, accelerate healing, and improve health. It is called “dry” because no solution is injected during the therapy.
If you are still on the fence about whether or not to go for dry needling, the following benefits can help you decide.
#1 Dry Needling Can Provide Pain Relief Without Side Effects
Sometimes, our muscles develop a knotted area called a trigger point, which activates nerves that sends pain signals to the brain.
Dry needling is an invasive procedure in which physical therapists send very fine, short, stainless-steel needles, called filiform needles, into your skin to relax the muscle knot and relieve pain without the need for medications which can have side effects.
Dry needling can also be used in conjunction with physical therapy treatments, like manual therapy, exercises, etc., for maximum pain relief.
#2 Dry Needling Can Accelerate Your Recovery
Dry needling can boost the natural healing process of the body by increasing the blood flow toward the affected area. Dry needling releases trigger points that cause tightness in the muscle, which restricts blood flow and oxygen delivery.
Dry needling also releases the buildup of metabolic waste products, such as lactic acid, from inside the muscles. This allows the oxygenated blood to flow to the muscles, thereby promoting healing.
#3 Dry Needling Lower Muscle Tension
Dry needling releases the taut band within the muscles, lowers muscle tension, and decreases muscle spasms. It also improves muscle extensibility and contractibility. Experiencing muscle twitch sensation when needled is a sign that dry needling is working to lower your muscle tension.
#4 Dry Needling Help Regain Range of Motion
Tight and painful muscles caused by multiple trigger points can also limit your mobility and range of motion. Consequently, your muscles start to weaken and lose mass due to reduced activity.
Dry needling, in combination with other physical therapy treatments, can ease your trigger point, improve flexibility and regain/increase your range of motion.
#5 Dry Needling Can Resolve Headaches and Migraines
Referred pain – pain that affects another part of the body, such as jaw pain, neck pain, or headaches – may also result from trigger points. Dry needling targets the trigger points that cause referred pain and eases headaches and migraines.
Dry Needling at H2 Health
If you are considering dry needling and want to know if the therapy is right for you, contact our certified physical therapists at H2 Health. Our team of highly trained and skilled physical therapists is specially trained in dry needling. They create highly customized care to treat your unique condition and ease your symptoms. If you would like to make an appointment, call us at (800) 699-9395 or contact one of our convenient locations near you. You can book a consultation by filling in our convenient appointment request form.