Dry Needling is the insertion of a monofilament needle, similar to acupuncture needles, into taut bands within a tight or spasmodic muscle with an overall goal of relaxing or releasing the muscle, thus in turn, reducing pain.  Depending on the situation, electrical stimulation through the needle can be performed, which sounds intimidating, but facilitates the relaxation of the muscle, and more or less feels like a "tapping" sensation vs electrical stimulation.

 

There is no medication involved but by simply using this technique, muscles can relax quicker than traditional manual therapy techniques provided by the average physical therapist.

​

We are not saying dry needling is the "cure" to muscle aches and pains, but used in conjunction with traditional PT practices, such as postural corrections, exercise programs, manual therapy techniques, modalities, such as electrical stimulation and laser therapy, your overall pain and function can improve within the same day as your first treatment!

​

How does this apply to me?

Lets say you wake up with a stiff neck or you hurt your back after doing yard work.  Many people take some form of anti-inflammatory or pain medication, may rest and use ice or heat to help alleviate their pain before they see their doctor.  As this author is well aware through her own personal experience, it may take weeks or months before you can be evaluated by your doctor.  In the state of Florida, you can see a physical therapist before seeing your doctor, and your physical therapist will thoroughly evaluate you and your condition before determining the best course of action.  With muscle spasms and acute injuries mentioned above, dry needling may very well be a great choice and may aid in a quicker recovery.

​

What if my pain is chronic?

A common scenario that many people with chronic low back pain (LBP) have is the initial injury or incident, years of on-again and off-again PT, chiropractic care, surgeries, etc, but still, nothing helps.  It may not be a bad idea to try dry needling.

​

First of all, with chronic LBP, you may have scar tissue, whether or not you've had surgery.  Chronic inflammation can absolutely result in scar tissue formation.  Dry needling can also help with this.  If there is scar tissue, this can limit the ability for the joint and/or muscle to move, thus causing secondary ailments elsewhere throughout the body.  Not to mention, there are likely areas of high tone (think muscle spasms or "knots").  Dry needling is meant to help alleviate these issues, as well.

​

Unsure if dry needling can help?  Call us today!