What is dry needling?

by | Jun 1, 2024

What is dry needling?

Dry needling is a form of chiropractic therapy that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body, known as trigger points. The goal of dry needling is to release muscle tension and reduce pain. Trigger points are tight areas within muscle tissue that cause pain in other parts of the body. By targeting these points, dry needling aims to alleviate pain and improve muscle function.

How does dry needling work?

When a needle is inserted into a trigger point, it creates a small injury in the muscle tissue. This minor injury triggers a healing response in the body, causing the muscle to relax and reducing pain. The process of needling stimulates blood flow to the affected area, promoting faster healing and improved function.

The insertion of the needle can also help to break up tight muscle fibers and knots, providing relief from muscle tension and discomfort.

Benefits of dry needling

Dry needling offers several benefits, making it a popular treatment option for various conditions. Some of the key benefits include:

  • Reducing chronic pain: Effective for conditions like back pain, neck pain, and tennis elbow.
  • Easing muscle tension: Helps relax tight muscles and alleviate discomfort.
  • Enhancing range of motion: Improves flexibility and movement.
  • Increasing blood flow: Promotes healing and reduces inflammation.
  • Faster healing and improved function: Aids in the recovery process and enhances overall muscle function.

Conditions helped by dry needling

Dry needling can be used to help reduce pain with a wide range of conditions. Some of the most common include:

  • Back pain
  • Neck pain
  • Tennis elbow
  • Chronic pain
  • Injuries

Research supporting dry needling

Proponents of dry needling argue that it is a highly effective treatment for a wide range of conditions.

Research has shown that dry needling can be effective in reducing pain and improving function in people with conditions such as back pain, neck pain, and tennis elbow. Numerous studies have demonstrated the benefits of dry needling, supporting its use as a viable treatment option for muscle-related pain and dysfunction.

Risks and safety of dry needling

Despite its effectiveness, dry needling is not without its risks. As with any manual therapy procedure there is a risk of complications such as bleeding, infection, and pain at the needle insertion site.

It is crucial to only receive treatment from a qualified practitioner who has been trained in the proper use of needles and the appropriate techniques for dry needling.

At Back to Motion, our practitioners are highly trained and experienced in providing safe and effective dry needling therapy.

Book your appointment at Back to Motion

Overall, dry needling is a highly effective form of therapy that can be used to reduce pain and improve function in people with a wide range of conditions. However, it is important to only receive treatment from a qualified practitioner.

At Back to Motion, we pride ourselves on offering expert dry needling services to help you achieve relief from pain and improve your overall well-being. Book an appointment at our NW Calgary clinic today.

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