Why would anyone want to Dry Needle?

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October 21, 2022

by: Dr. Jaicy Harless

“Tension is who you think you should be, Relaxation is who you are”

What is Dry Needling?

Dry needling is called “dry” because nothing is being injected into your body. The needle used is a solid filament needle. . The needle helps release the knot and relieve muscle pain or spasm. The needles remain in your skin/muscle for a short period of time depending on your physical therapist

Our muscles sometimes develop knotted areas called the trigger point. These trigger points can be highly sensitive, and painful, and cause referred pain that normally affects other parts of the body. Dry needling is a treatment designed to reduce muscular pain, and inactive trigger points, and restore function.

Where do trigger points occur?

On your neck, back and arms. Runners often get them on their legs. But there are many conditions that dry needling can help including:

Shoulder pain
Headaches
Achilles tendonitis
Sciatica
Plantar fasciitis
Hip and gluteal pain
Ligament/Tendon Tears

Why would anyone want to dry needle?

Dry needling can release inactive trigger points to relieve pain or improve the range of motion. Research shows that it improves pain control and reduces muscle tension. Research also shows that dry needling can normalize dysfunction of the motor end plates (which is where nerve impulses get transmitted to muscles) which can lead to a more rapid recovery.

Anyone who is experiencing body aches, migraine, or muscle tension can benefit from dry needling. Especially athletes who wish to return to the field, or to those who have been in a car accident.

It is the most powerful treatment method that allows the physical therapist to treat almost every muscle in the body that other methods/treatments cannot do.

Side effects of dry needling

Temporary soreness
Redness around the area
soreness

Effectivity

The effectiveness of dry needling depends on the skill of the therapist. Here at Elite Muscle Recovery we are confident and certified in dry needling. We accurately handle myofascial trigger points as well as kinesthetic awareness of the anatomical structure. At Elite Muscle Recovery we will discuss different treatment plans specific for you and your needs.