Why Dry Needling? The Science and Benefits of a Complementary Treatment
Pain and muscle dysfunction, whether chronic or acute, can significantly impact our quality of life. Physical therapy focuses on restoring, maintaining, and improving your physical function and overall well-being. In the state of Colorado, qualified and trained physical therapists may suggest including a technique called dry needling to address pain and dysfunction.
This alternative approach is gaining popularity as a complementary treatment alongside traditional physical therapy. Dry needling is a therapeutic technique that involves inserting thin, solid needles into specific muscles with the goal of alleviating pain or improving muscle performance. It is known as “dry” needling because it doesn’t involve the injection of any substances like medications.
The practice of dry needling is performed by licensed healthcare professionals (like Dr. Monica at Summus) who have received advanced and specialized training in this technique. Dr. Monica uses her knowledge to target exact areas causing discomfort and dysfunction.
Use of alcohol wipes and gloves while dry needling help ensure safety for the patient and the provider. These are the supplies we use at Summus for safety.
So what exactly does dry needling do?
Release of trigger points
Dry needling stimulates the release of myofascial trigger points (think of the tight and sometimes sensitive areas in your muscles) to alleviate muscle tension and pain.
Neurophysiological effects
When needles are inserted into the skin and muscles, they affect the nervous system by stimulating the release of endorphins to improve your body’s pain perception. Endorphins are natural pain relievers that the body releases in response to pain or stress.
Improved blood flow
Needling can also enhance blood flow in the treated area, which aids in the healing process while reducing muscle inflammation.
Dry needling of the sacroiliac joint and respective attachments and right gluteus.
Dry needling has many benefits, from pain relief and increased range of motion to improved muscle performance. Dry needling is most effective when it is followed up with specific exercises to help maintain the benefits this treatment provides. It is a promising approach to pain management and has gained recognition for its effectiveness in addressing musculoskeletal pain. Keep in mind, this complementary technique should only be performed by qualified practitioners as part of your individualized plan of care! Dr. Monica has received extensive training in dry needling and would be happy to answer questions about how dry needling could benefit you!
Dry needles used by Summus Rehabilitation.
Written by Lara Baum PT, DPT and Board Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist and Edited by Monica Vandervoort PT, DPT and Board Certified Women’s Health Clinical Specialist
References:
Cagnie B, Dewitte V, Barbe T, Timmermans F, Delrue N, Meeus M. Physiologic effects of dry needling. Curr Pain Headache Rep. 2013;17(8):348. doi:10.1007/s11916-013-0348-5
France S, Bown J, Nowosilskyj M, Mott M, Rand S, Walters J. Evidence for the use of dry needling and physiotherapy in the management of cervicogenic or tension-type headache: a systematic review. Cephalalgia. 2014;34(12):994-1003. doi:10.1177/0333102414523847
Kalichman L, Vulfsons S. Dry needling in the management of musculoskeletal pain. J Am Board Fam Med. 2010;23(5):640-646. doi:10.3122/jabfm.2010.05.090296