What is it?
Dry Needling is a term used to differentiate between needles used for injections (immunisations, steroid injections) and needles that are made of a solid filament, as used in the practice of acupuncture. This technique relies on the stimulation of specific reactions in the target tissue for its therapeutic effect. Dry needling’s focus is finding trigger points within the musculoskeletal tissue to help release tension in the muscle and in turn reduce pain.
How does it work?
The exact mechanisms of dry needling are not known. There are mechanical and biochemical effects. Research has shown that inserting a needle into trigger points can cause favourable biochemical changes, which assist in reducing pain. Think of a muscle contracting and relaxing. When it gets into a dysfunctional pattern from overuse or injury, the microscopic fibers get “stuck” creating a trigger point. Inserting a dry needle into those “sticky” points helps to re-start the inflammation process.
How is it different to Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is one part of a system of healing developed in China which has spread through Asia and the western world. Oriental medicine uses a system of physiology which imposes a system of channels or meridians in the body through which vital energy (qi) flows. These have branches deep into to the organs of the body and are the pathway through which the flow of energy in the meridians affects organ function and visa versa. The needling of points on meridians in the body are thought to help boost, harmonize and remove blockages in the flow of energy throughout the body.
Why Dry Needling?
Sometimes with soft tissue work, the trigger points are so deep into the tissue that they are hard to release. With dry needling, these trigger points can be accessed better because the needles can penetrate the area of dysfunction. Although you might be a bit sorer than when you first arrived to physio, once the inflammation settles decreased pain and increased range of motion are often experienced!
Want to know more?
Contact us at 9420 1221 (Lane Cove) or 9837 4440 (Quakers Hill) for more information or to book in.
References:
http://www.dryneedling.com.au/what-is-dry-needling/ http://www.releasept.com/physical-therapy-services/dry-needle/
