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Acupuncture

Dry Needling

Dry needling is a commonly enquired about service that can be used in conjunction with physiotherapy to best restore function.

Definition

Dry needling involves needling to dysfunctional tissues in order to improve function. This may include needling of myofascial trigger points and periosteum.

Myofascial trigger points are palpable nodules in the bands of skeletal muscles, often resulting in a shortening of muscle fibres which can cause referred pain, alongside pain on palpation.

Periosteum is a membranous tissue that covers the outer surface of bone, composed mostly of collagen and contains many nerve fibres and blood vessels resulting in a pain response when damaged.

 

What does it involve?

Insertion of a fine filament needle into a palpable trigger point, as identified by the physiotherapist. Mechanical stimulation of the muscle fibres results in a local twitch response, which can help to reduce the nociceptive stimulus that results in the sensation of pain. There is also an associated blood pooling affect, which contributes to the relaxation of muscle fibres, and allows oxygen and nutrients to reach the area to assist tissue healing.

Some research suggests that the needle triggers a polarisation to occur within the muscle fibres, contributing to tissue remodelling and thus healing.

Benefits

Dry needling helps to release myofascial trigger points which can result in:

  • Relief to muscular pain
  • Decrease muscle spasm
  • Improved joint range of motion
  • Improved flexibility

Latest research shows that dry needling in conjunction with physiotherapy is effective in increasing range of motion, reducing pain and increasing strength! However, there is limited evidence to suggest that dry needling alone has good long term effects.

If you are interested in receiving dry needling, or western acupuncture, contact our clinic today to book in for a consultation!

 

References:

https://www.britannica.com/science/periosteum

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6250299/

https://www.physio-pedia.com/Dry_needling

https://namtpt.wildapricot.org/MTPT_What_is_it

https://www.physio-pedia.com/Trigger_Points

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