Everything You Need to Know About Dry Needling: A Powerful Pain Relief Therapy

1. WHAT IS DRY NEEDLING?

Dry needling is a therapeutic technique that involves inserting a thin needle into the skin to stimulate specific points in the muscle known as trigger points or muscle knots. This technique is highly effective for managing neuromusculoskeletal pain and movement dysfunction. While dry needling has evolved, it is often referred to by several names, such as “intramuscular stimulation,” “functional dry needling (FDN),” and “trigger point therapy.” These terms highlight the diverse applications of the therapy in treating musculoskeletal pain and movement disorders.

2. HOW DID IT START?

The origins of dry needling date back to a time when medications or injections were not the preferred treatment. In the early 1900s, researchers began documenting the connection between tender muscles and orthopedic issues. Through the 1930s and 1940s, these studies identified pain referral patterns originating from muscular trigger points. In 1940, Dr. Karel Lewit, known as the father of manual medicine, demonstrated that the insertion of a “dry” needle provided greater therapeutic benefits than the use of injected medications. Over time, this technique evolved, replacing the original “dry” hypodermic needle with a smaller, more precise needle used in practice today.

3. IS DRY NEEDLING LIKE ACUPUNCTURE?

Although dry needling and acupuncture both use needles, the two therapies are fundamentally different in their goals, practices, and applications. Acupuncture is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine and focuses on balancing the body’s “chi” or “energy flow.” It is often used for treating conditions like anxiety, insomnia, and fibromyalgia, with sessions lasting 15 to 30 minutes.
In contrast, dry needling is specifically designed to treat musculoskeletal issues such as muscle pain, joint problems, and nerve-related conditions. It is used to address movement dysfunctions, relieve muscle tension, and improve range of motion. Unlike acupuncture, which follows a holistic approach to energy, dry needling is a targeted treatment focusing on specific areas of pain or dysfunction, making it ideal for conditions such as headaches, back pain, and shoulder pain.

4. IS IT SAFE?

As with any medical treatment, there are potential side effects with dry needling. However, it is considered a generally safe and effective treatment. Side effects are typically mild and may include insertion pain, temporary muscle soreness, fatigue, or bruising. It’s important to note that only 1-10% of patients experience such side effects.
Individuals with needle phobias, metal allergies, vascular diseases, or conditions like pregnancy or bleeding disorders should consult with their healthcare provider before undergoing dry needling. Discussing any concerns or pre-existing conditions with your doctor is essential to understanding the risks and benefits of dry needling for your specific needs.

5. WHAT CAN BE TREATED WITH DRY NEEDLING?

Dry needling can be a highly effective tool for treating a variety of pain conditions, particularly those resulting from movement dysfunction. It is beneficial for conditions like headaches, neck pain, back pain, knee pain, shoulder pain, and other musculoskeletal issues.
Dry needling is particularly effective at deactivating trigger points, which are tender knots within a muscle that often cause referred pain in other areas of the body. For instance, a person experiencing pain down their leg may have a trigger point in the hip. By inserting a needle into the trigger point, a muscle twitch occurs, releasing tension and alleviating pain. This process helps the muscle relax and reduces symptoms significantly.

Dry needling is often incorporated into a comprehensive treatment plan alongside chiropractic adjustments and rehabilitation techniques, offering a multifaceted approach to pain relief and recovery.

In conclusion, dry needling can be a valuable part of your chiropractic care, especially for addressing pain and movement issues. If you’re experiencing persistent pain or discomfort, contact Cole Pain Therapy Group to learn more about how dry needling, combined with other chiropractic treatments, can help restore your health and mobility.

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We are the Memphis area’s top-rated chiropractic group, providing you with gentle chiropractic care, dry needle therapy, exercise therapy, and therapeutic massage.

2845 Summer Oaks Dr, Memphis, TN 38134
(901) 377-2340

Life Shouldn't Hurt!

You Deserve To Feel Great. We Can Help!
Your go-to Chiropractor in Memphis, TN

Richard L. Cole, DC, DACNB, DAIPM, FIACN, FICC
Jeffrey D. Luebbe, DC, CCRD, CCSP
W. Steven Vollmer, DC, DAAPM
Bradford J. Cole, DC, MS, CSCS
J. Colby Poston, DC
Daniel H. Smith, DC
2845 Summer Oaks Dr., Memphis, TN 38134
(901) 377-2340

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