What is Dry Needling?

Discussion Myofascial pain is pain from muscle or fascia, and usually associated with myofascial trigger points which are “…a highly localized, hyperirritable spot in a palpable, taut band of skeletal muscle fibers.” Trigger points are common reasons people, especially adults, seek relief in primary care or pain clinic settings. Athletes may also complain of pain caused by them. They are treated in a variety of ways, none of which used as a single method is successful for all individuals. Muscle “…stretching, massage, ischemic compression, laser therapy, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, biofeedback, and pharmacological treatment…” are some options. Learning Point “With dry needling, a solid needle is passed through the skin into muscles, ligaments, tendons, subcutaneous fascia, and scar tissue to relieve or stimulate myofascial trigger points. The practitioner palpates the trigger point, places the need into the position over the target area on the skin, and taps or flicks the top of the needle to penetrate the skin. The needle may be inserted into a muscle to elicit a local twitch response, or into other connective tissue to elicit tissue relaxation. The needle is removed and placed into neighboring areas or allowed to remain in place for two minutes until the trigger-point sensitivity decreases.” It is called “dry” needling as the needles are solid and do not inject any fluid. Dry needling is al...
Source: PediatricEducation.org - Category: Pediatrics Authors: Tags: Uncategorized Source Type: news