Dry needling is effective for the treatment of myofascial dysfunction and muscular pain. The treatment involves penetrating skin, fascia and muscles to look into adhesions, connective tissue and trigger points using a thin filiform needle. In simple terms, needling is done at muscle’s trigger points and no substance is injected.
This treatment speeds up the healing process and relieves pain by increasing joint range of motion, correcting movement dysfunction and decreasing muscle hypertonicity by releasing a trigger point adhesion.
What does dry needling help with?
- Headache
- Neck pain
- Low back pain
- Knee pain
- Shoulder dysfunction
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Hip pain
- Ankle sprain
- Muscle strain
Dry needling is performed by physical therapists and Chiropractic physicians. If you want to get rid of any of the above problems using dry needling, reach out to Acacia Fysio Plus Zorg. Their team of trained specialists examine you and provide effective physical therapy treatment. They are available in 3 locations – Acacia square, Bellavista Street and Titus Brandsmahof.
The treatment is effective for acute and chronic pain, joint dysfunction, decreased flexibility etc. Injured players can recover from physical injuries sooner using dry needling. Most of the patients find a significant drop in their pain level after their first treatment.
How is it different from acupuncture?
The goal of acupuncture is to alter the flow of Qi or energy and involves knowledge of Chinese meridians. Physical, pulse and tongue examination are done. Dry needling involves the practitioner’s knowledge of skeletal and neural anatomy. The examination process in extensive and includes analyzing the movement, orthopedic evaluation and a neurological work up.
Is dry needling painful?
It is likely to cause mild or moderate pain. Pain levels vary depending on the location of the injury. When thin needle is inserted, a slight contraction or twitch occurs within the muscle which causes pain. The twitches are a good sign indicating that the trigger point is touched. There may be soreness for about 48 hours after the treatment.
After-care:
You won’t be required to take special precautions. Take plenty of water and rest well. It is good to avoid working out after a treatment but you can move around a bit to enhance blood circulation. Use heat and ice packs alternatively if you the muscle soreness to be excessive. Avoid overstretching as it could cause inflammation and prolong the healing period.
Some require 2 to 3 treatment cycles while some require several needling therapies to become fully functional. This is influenced by the location of the injury. The trigger points are located deep under the muscles which require several treatment to see improvement.
Possible side effects:
Many experience sore muscles. The targeted muscles may feel bruised for a couple of days. Running a hot bath (with a couple of cups of Epson Salt in it) and drinking plenty of water would quicken the healing process. Some feel tired or emotional up to 2 hours following the treatment.
Don’t get bogged down by pain. Book an appointment for Dry needling and get back on your heels again.
