Dry Needling
What is dry needling?
Dry needling is a modern treatment that is designed to ease muscular pain. Fine needles are inserted into the pressure/trigger points of the muscle to help release some of the tension; reducing the overall pain.
How is it different to acupuncture?
Dry needling is different to acupuncture, as traditionally acupuncture is used to align a persons energy. While dry needling focuses on using strong stimulation on the muscle to get it to release. The similarity between the two is the needle which is used. It is a very thin, stainless steel needle. Dry needling’s aim is to communicate with the muscle to relieve muscle and ligament discomfort. While acupuncture focuses on the meridian line, promoting overall wellbeing.
What symptoms does dry needling help?
Lower back pain
Neck pain
Headaches and migraines
Muscles strains in the body
Frozen shoulder
Carpal Tunnel
How does it help?
Dry needling helps to release muscle knots, relieving muscle pain and spasms. It helps to increase rate of recovery and prevention of injury.
Contraindications:
Patient with needle phobia
Unwilling patient
Over an area or limb with lymphedema
Patient with compromised immune system
Diabetes
Pregnancy
Children
Patients with epilepsy
What to expect during your session?
The needle that is used is very thin, however in certain locations it can sometimes be felt as it gets inserted. If there is any discomfort, let your therapist know straight away. Once the needle is in you might feel a small ache but this is completely normal.
Some temporary and common side effects of dry needling:
Soreness at insertion site
Bleeding at site
Bruising at or around site.
These side effects occur very rarely however can still occur:
Organ puncture
Infections
Convulsions
After care:
If you experience any shortness or breath, a dry cough, pain when inhaling, pain in the trunk or chest. Please contact your medical practitioner and/or your remedial massage therapist.
Dry needling also compliments our Sports Massage treatment well.