Dry Needling

Dry needling is an efficient and effective technique used to treat myofascial dysfunction and muscular pain. Evidence supporting the use of dry needling and acupuncture in physiotherapy has increased dramatically in the last decade. Basically, dry needling involves the insertion of a fine needle into a muscle trigger point to relax overactive muscles, reduce inflammation and help relieve pain.

How does it work?

Locally

• A local histamine response occurs when a needle is inserted (a similar response occurs when you get a splinter) – the result is increased blood flow and activation of repair cells.

Other

• Central Nervous System (CNS) desensitisation

• Stimulation of nerve fibres that may block the pain messages reaching the CNS

• Stimulation of the pituitary gland, which elicits the release of certain pain relieving hormones (including endorphins) into the blood stream

Dry needling is an effective technique used as part of treatment for a multitude of conditions, from headaches to referred nerve pain or tennis elbow