Have you heard about dry needling but you’re not 100% sure what it actually is? In this blog, we'll provide a straightforward guide to this effective therapy, highlighting its potential to relieve pain from conditions ranging from shoulder issues to low back pain, and even headaches.

We'll explore how it compares to acupuncture, and delve into the science behind its mechanisms, helping you understand why it might be the right choice for your pain relief.

What is dry needling?

Dry needling is a therapeutic technique used by physical therapists, chiropractors, acupuncturists, and other trained healthcare providers to address musculoskeletal pain and movement issues. This treatment involves the insertion of thin, sharp needles into specific muscle trigger points.

Trigger points are localised areas of tight and dysfunctional muscle tissue that can result from injury, overuse, or poor movement patterns.

By targeting these trigger points, dry needling aims to decrease muscle tightness, improve blood flow, and reduce pain.

Whilst it can sound a bit scary if you’ve never done it, it’s a thin needle (not like a blood test) and no liquid is injected into the body (hence the term "dry" needling). Unlike trigger point injections, which involve the administration of medication, dry needling focuses solely on releasing trigger points to alleviate pain and restore muscle function.

Does dry needling help with muscle pain?

Yes, dry needling has proven to be a valuable method in addressing musculoskeletal pain, enhancing your daily function and general pain relief. If muscle, ligament, or tendon pain is holding you back, exploring the world of dry needling could help you find relief.

How does dry needling work?

When a muscle is overused or injured, it can develop trigger points, which disrupt its normal function. These trigger points can cause pain, restrict range of motion, and even refer pain to other parts of the body. Dry needling works by stimulating these trigger points to promote healing and relieve pain.

The insertion of a needle into a trigger point helps restore normal blood supply to the affected area, flushing out accumulated toxins and reducing muscle tension.

Additionally, the needle can trigger the release of endorphins, which are natural pain-relieving substances produced by the body. The combination of increased blood flow and the release of endorphins can lead to immediate pain relief and improved mobility.

Dry needling vs. acupuncture… What's the difference?

Dry needling and acupuncture share some similarities but also have distinct differences. Both treatments involve the insertion of thin needles into specific points in the body. However, their underlying principles and treatment goals differ.

Acupuncture is an ancient practice rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, with a history of over 3,000 years. It focuses on balancing the flow of energy, known as chi or qi, through pathways called meridians.

By inserting needles into specific points along these meridians, licensed acupuncturists aim to rebalance the energy and promote healing. Acupuncture is used to treat a wide range of conditions, including pain, fatigue, infertility, and anxiety.

On the other hand, dry needling is a more recent technique that specifically targets musculoskeletal and neuromuscular pain caused by trigger points.

It does not involve the concept of energy flow but instead aims to release tense and dysfunctional muscle tissue. The number of needles used in dry needling is usually fewer than in acupuncture, and it is often combined with other physical therapy and chiropractic techniques to enhance its effectiveness.

What conditions can dry needling help with?

Dry needling has shown effectiveness in treating various musculoskeletal conditions. It can be used to alleviate pain and improve function in the following conditions:

• Shoulder pain, including rotator cuff pain and biceps tendinitis

• Iliotibial band syndrome

• Achilles tendinitis

• Low back pain

• Tennis elbow

• Whiplash or neck pain

• Headaches

• Muscle strains

• Hip pain

• Temporomandibular pain (TMJ)

It's important to note that each individual's response to dry needling may vary, and the treatment's suitability should be determined through a thorough evaluation by a qualified healthcare professional, including chiropractors.

Is dry needling painful?

One common concern about dry needling is the level of discomfort associated with the treatment.

While everyone's pain tolerance is different, most people report minor or no discomfort during dry needling sessions. The insertion of the needle may cause a brief prick or sensation, but this is generally well-tolerated and some patients even enjoy it.

Some individuals may experience soreness or tightness near the insertion site after the treatment, but this is temporary and can be alleviated through movement and stretching.

What to expect during a dry needling session.

Before undergoing a dry needling session, it's essential to consult with your primary care provider to determine if it's the right treatment for you. The process typically involves the following steps:

Evaluation: A physical therapist, chiropractor, or licensed acupuncturist will conduct a comprehensive evaluation to assess your symptoms, mobility, and muscle function. This evaluation helps determine if dry needling is appropriate and if trigger points are contributing to your symptoms.

Treatment Plan: Based on the evaluation, your healthcare provider will develop a personalised treatment plan that incorporates dry needling alongside other therapeutic techniques, such as exercise and stretching. This holistic approach aims to address the underlying causes of your pain and prevent the reocurrence of trigger points.

Dry Needling Procedure: During the dry needling session, the healthcare provider will insert thin, solid needles into the identified trigger points. The number of needles used and the duration they remain in place will depend on the treatment location, the number of trigger points, and the treatment goals. Some individuals may experience immediate relief, while others may require multiple sessions to achieve optimal results.

Post-Treatment Care: After the session, it's important to follow any post-treatment instructions provided by your healthcare provider. This may include gentle exercises, stretching, or applying heat or ice to the treated area. It's also crucial to communicate any changes or concerns with your provider to ensure the best possible outcome.

Who should consider dry needling?

Dry needling can be a safe and effective treatment option for individuals experiencing muscle, tendon, or ligament pain.

However, there are certain groups of people who should consult with their healthcare provider before undergoing dry needling:

Children under the age of 12: Dry needling may be uncomfortable for young children, and alternative treatment options should be explored first.

Pregnant individuals: Due to potential risks, pregnant individuals should consult with their healthcare provider before considering dry needling.

Individuals with compromised immune systems: Those with compromised immune systems may have an increased risk of infection and should discuss the potential risks with their healthcare provider.

Individuals with a fear of needles: If you have an extreme fear of needles (trypanophobia), it's important to communicate this with your healthcare provider, who can explore alternative treatment options or provide additional support during the procedure.

Individuals who have recently undergone surgery or are on blood thinners: Special considerations may be necessary for individuals who have recently had surgery or are taking blood thinners. Consultation with a healthcare provider is crucial to ensure safe and appropriate treatment.

Want to try dry needling? Our Brisbane physiotherapists and chiropractors are here to help.

Struggling with musculoskeletal pain? Elite Health and Performance Clinic is here to assist you on your path to recovery.

Our skilled practitioners in Brisbane specialise in a holistic approach to pain management and rehabilitation, ensuring you receive top-notch care tailored to your needs.

Experience the benefits of our innovative treatments, including dry needling, designed to reduce pain, improve function, and get you back to your best self.

Ready to make a change? Contact us today to schedule your consultation and learn more about how we can help you achieve a pain-free, active lifestyle.