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DRY NEEDLING
What is Dry Needling?
Dry Needling is a form of Acupuncture that is used to help manage pain and inflammation within the muscle and joints. It is different to Traditional Acupuncture which has been practised in China for over 2000 years.
What would happen if I chose to have Dry Needling during my appointment?
If you and your practitioner agree that Dry Needling could be beneficial to your recovery time, thin Dry Needling needles will be placed in specific areas to address your concern or condition. Your practitioner may gently twist the needles to stimulate the body’s natural healing response. The needles are often left in for 15 to 20 minutes, with the total session lasting anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour.
What is the difference between Dry Needling and Acupuncture?
Dry Needling:
Focus: Targets muscle tissue, specifically trigger points (knots or tight areas in muscles).
Technique: Thin needles are inserted directly into these tight muscle fibres to release tension and improve blood flow.
Goal: Primarily used to relieve musculoskeletal pain, improve range of motion, and decrease muscle stiffness. Dry needling helps by stimulating nerves and muscles, which can release chemicals that reduce pain, and promote muscle relaxation and healing.
Practitioners: Performed by an osteopath, physiotherapists, chiropractors, and other healthcare professionals trained in musculoskeletal treatment.
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Acupuncture:
Focus: Based on Traditional Chinese Medicine, acupuncture works with the body’s energy (called "Qi") and is aimed at restoring balance in the body.
Technique: Needles are inserted into specific points along energy pathways, or "meridians," to help the body heal itself and improve overall health.
Goal: Used for a wide range of conditions, from pain relief to stress reduction, digestive issues, and more.
Practitioners: Performed by licensed acupuncturists trained in Traditional Chinese Medicine.
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How does Dry Needling work?
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Dry needling involves inserting fine sterile needles into certain points across the body, to encourage blood flow to an area that is damaged through injury or tension, encouraging the body to create natural pain relief by stimulating the release of endorphins, the body's natural pain relieving chemical.
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Evidence Based Research on the health benefits of Dry Needling is still limited, however, there are some studies that found Dry Needling may influence the autonomic nervous system, which regulates blood pressure, triggers relaxation and reduces inflammation. However it may take several sessions before you notice any benefits.
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Is Dry Needling Painful?
You may feel a slight sting, pinch, ache, or some pain as the needle is being inserted. Some practitioners move the needle after it has been placed in the body, which can cause additional pressure.
Once the needle has been properly placed, you may feel a tingling or heavy feeling, which is referred to as de qi. Let your practitioner know if you are uncomfortable or in a lot of pain at any point during the session. Intense pain may mean the needle has not been inserted or placed correctly.
Does Dry Needling have side effects?
As with any treatment, Dry Needling may cause side effects in some individuals. Side effects may include:
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Pain and bleeding from the needle insertion
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Nausea
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Infections
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Skin rash
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Allergic reaction
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Bruising around the area the needles were placed
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Dizziness
If you are thinking of having Dry Needling, but are unsure due to caution or ongoing health conditions, speak to a qualified healthcare practitioner beforehand or phone the clinic for more guidance.