What is Dry Needling?
It involves the insertion of thin, solid needles into specific points in the muscles, known as trigger points or myofascial trigger points. These trigger points are tight bands or knots within the muscle tissue that can contribute to pain, restricted range of motion, and muscle dysfunction.
How does it work?
- Restarts Healing Process: In instances where the body encounters difficulty in finishing its self-healing mechanisms, chronic conditions ensue. Using needles can jumpstart a fresh healing response. These needles not only start the healing process but also keep it going for the initial injury's recovery.
- Improved Blood Flow: Many injuries stick around because the affected tissue doesn't get enough blood. Things like ligaments, tendons, and joints naturally have a poor blood supply. When we use needles, it causes a bit of bleeding in the area. This increased blood flow reaches parts that wouldn't usually get it. Blood carries the good stuff for healing, so this boost helps the healing process.
- Reduces Pain: When the needle causes a dull pain, it tells the brain to make more natural painkillers, helping to reduce overall pain.
- Tissue Restoration: When needles are inserted into certain tissues it also triggers the production of chemicals that are good for fixing and rebuilding tissues, improving the healing process at the injury site. These chemicals can repair tissue damage from both injuries and normal wear and tear, slowing down the natural breakdown process over time.
- Scar Tissue: When we use needles, we're essentially breaking down scar tissue that's not up to the task of handling stress effectively. Scar tissue can form as a result of injuries, surgeries, or other traumas, but it doesn't always contribute to optimal tissue function. By breaking up this scar tissue through needle application, we create a space for the growth of healthier and more resilient tissue.
WHAT CONDITIONS CAN THIS HELP?
- Achilles Tendonitis
- Shin Splints
- Plantar Fasciitis (Foot Pain)
- IT Band Syndrome
- Muscle Strains
- Low Back Pain
- Herniated or Bulging Discs
- Sciatica
- Stenosis
- Nerve Problems
- Neck Pain
- Migraines/Headaches
- Rotator Cuff
- Epicondylitis (Tennis/Golfers Elbow)
- Upper Back and Shoulder dysfunction
- Hip Bursitis
- Piriformis Syndrome
- Degenerative joint disease
- Osteoarthritis
- Hand/Finger Pain
- Scar formation
- Post-Surgical pain and dysfunction
- Frozen Shoulder
- Impaired Mobility
what is the difference between dry needling and acupuncture?
Dry needling and acupuncture, though both involving the use of thin needles, differ significantly in their principles and applications. Dry needling is rooted in Western medicine and focuses on treating musculoskeletal issues by targeting trigger points in the muscles. It aims to alleviate pain, improve flexibility, and enhance muscle function. On the other hand, acupuncture originates from Traditional Chinese Medicine, involving the insertion of needles along energy meridians to balance the flow of Qi, addressing a wide range of conditions beyond musculoskeletal problems. While both techniques use needles, their underlying philosophies, goals, and treatment approaches set them apart in the realm of therapeutic interventions.
WHAT is Electro-Needling?
Electro-needling, also known as microcurrent needling is a therapeutic technique that combines the principles of traditional needling with the application of low-level electrical currents. Similar to dry needling, thin needles are inserted into specific points on the body, typically acupuncture points or trigger points. However, in electro-needling, a mild electrical current is then applied through the needles.
The electrical stimulation enhances the effects of traditional needling by providing additional stimulation to the targeted tissues. This can have various potential benefits, including increased circulation, improved muscle tone, and modulation of the nervous system. Electro-needling is employed in both Western medical and traditional Chinese medicine contexts, offering a unique approach to address pain, muscle dysfunction, and other health concerns.
It's essential to note that the specific techniques and applications of electro-needling may vary depending on the healthcare practitioner and the therapeutic goals of the treatment. If considering electro-needling, it's advisable to consult with a qualified and experienced healthcare professional to determine its appropriateness for your individual needs.