Dry needling is a therapeutic technique used by healthcare professionals to treat myofascial pain and muscle tension. It involves the insertion of ultra-thin, sterile needles into specific trigger points within muscles. This process aims to release tight knots, improve blood flow, and promote healing in the affected areas. Unlike acupuncture, which is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, dry needling is based on Western anatomical and neurophysiological principles. Patients often report immediate relief from pain, a sense of relaxation and improved range of motion following treatment.
Dry needling has its origins in medical pain management. Dr Janet Travell (1901-1997) was an American doctor who researched the technique of treating musculoskeletal pain using injected local anesthetics and muscle relaxants. She also experimented with inserting thin needles into muscle trigger points without injecting any medication and discovered this was also successful in relieving pain and muscle tension. She called this technique “dry needling”.
Common conditions treated with dry needling include myofascial pain syndrome, tension headaches, migraines, neck and back pain, joint pain and sports-related injuries. It is particularly effective for conditions that involve tight muscle bands or trigger points that refer pain to other areas of the body. Additionally, dry needling can be beneficial for conditions such as sciatica, fibromyalgia, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. By targeting these specific areas, dry needling helps to alleviate pain and improve function.
Dry needling is not painful when performed by a skilled practitioner.