What is dry needling?
Dry needling is a technique used by many different healthcare providers to treat musculoskeletal pain and movement issues. During this treatment, a thin needle is inserted into the skin to treat muscle trigger points. These tend to be knotted, tender areas of muscle all over the body. By stimulating this trigger point, blood supply is flushed out of the area releasing tension.
What is dry needling used for?
Dry needling is used for treatment of muscle pain. It can be used all over the body, including treatment in the face for pain associated with TMJ, and in the feet for pain associated with neuropathy. Typically it is used in conjunction with other forms of pain management such as massage, stretching, or physical therapy.
Does it hurt?
The needles used for dry needling are very small and thin. There may be a pinch when the needle is inserted or some pressure felt as the muscle is being released. Needles are left inserted for as short as 2 seconds to as long as 20 minutes depending on what the provider feels is necessary. However, most patients receive immediate relief with dry needling that lasts many days after treatment.
