Dry Needling
Dry needling is a therapeutic technique where thin, solid needles are inserted into muscle trigger points to relieve pain and improve movement. Unlike acupuncture, which is based on traditional Chinese medicine, dry needling is rooted in Western medicine and focuses on musculoskeletal conditions.
The technique targets myofascial trigger points—tight muscle knots that cause pain and dysfunction. Dry needling helps reduce muscle tension, improve blood flow, and promote healing by inserting needles into these points. This can benefit conditions like chronic pain, sports injuries, muscle tightness, and tension headaches.
Dry needling is often used by physical therapists as part of a broader treatment plan. While generally safe, some people may experience mild soreness, bruising, or temporary discomfort after treatment.
Overall, dry needling can be an effective tool for pain relief and muscle recovery, especially when combined with other therapies like stretching, strengthening, and manual therapy.