What is dry needling?
Dry Needling typically refers to the use of solid filiform needles (acupuncture needles) to stimulate specific therapeutic reactions in the target tissue. No agent or substance is injected into the body.
Unlike the traditional Eastern use of needles known as acupuncture, the Western scientific method of dry needling is an evidence based approach. The body of research supporting the beneficial use of dry needling in the treatment of a variety of musculoskeletal and soft tissue conditions has grown substantially in recent years.
How does it work?
Dry needling has been proven to be a very effective way of relaxing spasmed muscles, thereby relieving pain and helping muscle and other tissues to heal. Trigger points are tight, hypersensitive bands of muscle. Inserting a needle into a trigger point results in:
- The release of Histamine such as when we are stung by a bee or getting a splinter. This elicits a healing response by increasing blood flow and activating cells responsible for repair.
- The stimulation of specific sensory nerve fibres that desensitise pain messages reaching the central nervous system.
- A neurohormonal effect causes the release of endorphins and other pain relieving hormones.
Physiotherapists often combine it with other treatment techniques to achieve superior results faster.
Book your appointment today call (08) 9337 8530