Dry needling, also known as Trigger Point Dry Needling (TDN), is a technique that helps stop pain or knotted areas in your muscles. But how does it work and what does it work on? Well, we’d like to explain it to you!
The Basics
This type of therapy is used to treat muscular tension, spasms, and neuropathic (nerve) pain. It is called “dry needling” because these instruments do not inject any solutions or vaccines into the body. The needles are inserted into the tissue in order to produce the desired effect. These extremely fine needles are inserted into the tight muscle areas in order to relax them. Therapists look for a “twitch” or a contraction of the muscle when they insert the needle. This signal shows that the muscle releases its tension.
Conditions TDN Helps
While TDN is not for everyone, many patients have chosen this alternative therapy in order to help their conditions. Some muscular conditions include basic pains like neck, back, hip, and gluteal. TDN will also help serious conditions like sciatica, arthritis, tennis and golfer’s elbow, and herniated discs. There are many other conditions that may be helped with this type of treatment. TDN also works for people with overuse and sports injuries as well as chronic pain conditions.
Pain and Time
Many patients describe the sensation of the needle being manipulated as a painful like a deep cramp or ache. This reaction is natural and only lasts until the needle is removed. Once the need is removed, the muscle will be relaxed, leaving the patient feel much better after the treatment. While it could take one or two treatments to feel relief, patients should expect to feel an increase in the range of motion, ease of movement, and a decrease in symptoms. Patients have reported being sore after treatment. To help ease soreness, apply ice and heat to the area and stretch the treated muscles. Some patients have reported symptoms going away completely after a single session. Results differ from patient to patient and are not typical.
Dry needling has been help people since it was introduced in the 1970s. These needles will help relieve your muscles of tension and leave them feeling relaxed and as flexible as ever. To schedule your dry needling session or for more information, contact your Life Fitness physical therapist today!
Contact Us to Learn More About Our Dry Needling Services
If you’d like to schedule an appointment to help with your aches and paints, call Life Fitness Physical Therapy today at 410-368-1026, or find the location nearest you. If you’d like more information about what to expect on your first visit with us, please check out our Patient Information page.
