SL Downtown Physiotherapy & Massage
Unit 1-1 Main Street NE, Slave Lake, Alberta T0G 2A2
Dry Needling
Dry needling is a therapeutic technique used by the Physiotherapists that involves the insertion of thin, solid needles into specific points in the body, known as trigger points or myofascial trigger points, to alleviate pain and improve muscle function. Here are key points about dry needling
Needle Insertion
In dry needling, thin needles, similar to acupuncture needles, are inserted into the skin and muscle tissue at targeted points. The term “dry” distinguishes it from “wet” needling, which involves injecting substances such as corticosteroids into the targeted areas.
Trigger Points
Dry needling typically targets trigger points, which are tight bands or knots within muscles that can be a source of pain and dysfunction. The needling is aimed at releasing or deactivating these trigger points.
Mechanism of Action
The exact mechanism of how dry needling works is not fully understood, but it is believed to have several effects, including
- Muscle Relaxation: Needling may lead to a reflex relaxation of the muscles being treated.
- Pain Modulation: It may help modulate pain by affecting the nervous system and promoting the release of certain neurotransmitters.
- Blood Flow: Needling can stimulate local blood flow, promoting healing and the removal of toxins.