Trust Pollinate Health with your dry needling treatment
Dry needling is a therapy offered by Pollinate Health physiotherapy. It is a technique used to relieve muscle pain and improve muscle function by inserting fine needles into trigger points within the muscle.
A new type of western medical acupuncture
Our physiotherapists use thin needles to penetrate trigger points or areas of muscle tension to stimulate the natural healing response of the body. Unlike acupuncture used in traditional Chinese medicine, dry needling is based on Western medical concepts and is used to target specific areas of the body to relieve pain and improve mobility.
Releasing tension and stimulating healing
Dry needling aims to release tension and promote healing by stimulating the body’s natural healing response. It can be used to offer pain relief for a variety of conditions, including lower back pain, neck pain, knee pain, shoulder pain, and headaches.
Part of your comprehensive physiotherapy treatment plan
At Pollinate Health, we are dedicated to providing our clients with the highest quality of care. Our physiotherapists are trained in the human body and its anatomy, allowing them to have a deep understanding of how to target specific muscles and trigger points to effectively relieve pain and improve muscle function.
Dry needling can also be used as part of a comprehensive physiotherapy treatment plan, which may include other techniques such as exercise and manual therapy.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our skilled physiotherapists and learn more about how dry needling can benefit you.
What exactly is dry needling treatment?
Dry needling is a technique used by physiotherapists and other healthcare professionals to treat pain and dysfunction in muscles and other soft tissues.
It is a technique that involves inserting fine needles into trigger points or tight bands of muscle to relieve pain and improve function.
Dry needling is thought to work through several mechanisms, including:
- Trigger point deactivation: Dry needling can help to deactivate trigger points, which are knots or tight bands of muscle that can cause pain and dysfunction. By inserting a needle into the trigger point, the muscle fibres are stimulated to contract and then relax, which can help to release tension and restore normal function.
- Pain modulation: Dry needling can stimulate the body’s natural pain control mechanisms, including the release of endorphins and other neurotransmitters. This can help to reduce pain and improve overall well-being.
- Increased blood flow: The insertion of needles can increase blood flow to the affected area, which can promote healing and tissue repair.
When a needle is inserted into a trigger point, it can cause a twitch response, which is a brief contraction of the muscle fibres. This twitch response helps to release tension in the muscle and can promote healing by increasing blood flow and oxygenation to the affected area.
Dry needling is typically used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for musculoskeletal conditions, and may be combined with other forms of therapy such as exercise, manual therapy, and education.
What will you feel during your dry needling session?
During a dry needling treatment, you may feel a sensation similar to a muscle twitch or cramp as the needle is inserted and manipulated within the trigger point or tight band of muscle.
You may also experience a temporary feeling of soreness or achiness in the treated area for a short period after the treatment.
However, everyone’s response to dry needling is different, and some people may not experience any discomfort at all.
It’s important to communicate with your physiotherapist throughout the treatment to ensure that you are comfortable and to adjust the treatment as necessary.
Is dry needling painful?
Dry needling can be uncomfortable for some individuals, but it is generally well-tolerated and does not cause significant pain. The sensation experienced during dry needling can vary depending on factors such as the individual’s pain threshold, the location of the trigger points, and the depth of the needle insertion.
It is normal to experience some soreness or mild discomfort after dry needling, similar to the feeling of having worked out a muscle. This is usually temporary and can be alleviated with gentle stretching, ice, or heat therapy.
Is dry needling safe?
The technique is considered safe when performed by a qualified healthcare professional, and side effects are generally mild and include temporary soreness, bruising, or bleeding at the site of insertion.
Overall, dry needling is a safe and effective treatment option for many musculoskeletal conditions, and the discomfort experienced during the procedure is generally minimal.
If you have concerns about pain or discomfort during dry needling, it is important to discuss them with your therapist before undergoing treatment.
When is dry needling recommended?
Dry needling treatment is recommended for various musculoskeletal conditions that involve trigger points, tight muscles, and other soft tissue restrictions.
It is often used as a part of a comprehensive physiotherapy treatment plan, and is usually recommended when other forms of therapy such as exercise and manual therapy have not provided sufficient relief.
Some common conditions for which dry needling treatment may be recommended include:
- Myofascial pain syndrome: This is a chronic condition that involves the development of trigger points in the muscles, or muscular pain, which can cause pain and restricted movement. Dry needling can help to release tension in the trigger points, reduce muscular pain, and improve overall function.
- Neck and back pain: Dry needling can be used to target tight muscles and trigger points in the neck and back, which are common causes of pain and stiffness in these areas. Dry needling can help decrease pain and can be an option for chronic neck pain relief.
- Tendinopathies: Dry needling may be used to treat tendinopathy, which involves pain in the tendons. By releasing tension in the adjacent muscles, dry needling can help to reduce pain and improve function.
- Headaches: Dry needling can be used to treat tension headaches, which are often caused by tension in the neck and shoulder muscles.
- Joint pain: Dry needling may be used in conjunction with other forms of therapy to treat joint pain caused by conditions such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.
- Plantar fasciitis: Dry needling helps plantar fasciitis by releasing tension in the plantar fascia and related muscles, improving blood flow and reducing inflammation, which can alleviate pain and promote healing in the affected area.
Overall, dry needling treatment may be recommended for a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions that involve soft tissue restrictions, tension, or pain. It is important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional, such as a physiotherapist, to determine if dry needling is appropriate for your specific condition.
What causes myofascial trigger points?
Myofascial trigger points, also known as MTrPs, are typically caused by repetitive or sustained stress on a muscle or group of muscles.
This can lead to the development of a taut band of muscle fibre that is tender to the touch and can cause pain and restricted movement.
Some common causes of myofascial trigger point pain include:
- Overuse or repetitive strain: This can occur with activities such as typing, using a computer mouse, or playing a musical instrument for extended periods of time.
- Poor posture: Maintaining a posture that places excessive strain on certain muscles can cause trigger points to develop over time.
- Trauma or injury: A muscle injury or trauma can cause trigger point pain to develop as the muscle attempts to compensate for the injury.
- Muscle imbalances: Weakness or tightness in certain muscle groups can lead to imbalances that place increased stress on certain muscles, leading to the development of trigger point pain.
- Stress: Emotional or psychological stress can cause muscle tension, which can lead to the development of trigger points.
It is important to identify the underlying cause of myofascial trigger points in order to effectively treat and prevent their recurrence.
A qualified healthcare professional, such as a physiotherapist, can help determine the underlying cause of your trigger point pain and develop an individualised treatment plan to address your specific needs. Dry needling might be included in this treatment plan.
Is dry needling a common physiotherapy treatment?
Physiotherapists are one of the healthcare professionals who are trained and qualified to perform dry needling. In fact, dry needling is becoming increasingly popular among physiotherapists as an effective adjunct to other forms of physical therapy.
Training via certified dry needling courses
Physiotherapists who are trained in dry needling will typically have completed a certification course in the technique, which includes both theoretical and practical training. This training ensures that they have the necessary knowledge and skills to perform the technique safely and effectively.
High-level knowledge of the musculoskeletal system
Physiotherapists have extensive knowledge of the musculoskeletal system and are trained to assess and diagnose musculoskeletal conditions. This means they can accurately identify the specific muscles and trigger points that need to be targeted with dry needling, based on their knowledge of anatomy, biomechanics, and pathology.
The use of dry needling by physiotherapists is based on the understanding of the musculoskeletal system and the body’s response to injury and pain. By inserting needles into trigger points or tight bands of muscle, physiotherapists can help to release tension and promote healing in the affected area.
One part of your whole physio treatment plan
Physiotherapists are also trained to use a range of techniques and modalities to treat musculoskeletal conditions, including dry needling. They have a comprehensive understanding of how different techniques can be combined and used in conjunction with other forms of therapy to achieve the best outcomes for their patients.
Finally, physiotherapists are regulated healthcare professionals who are held to strict standards of education, training, and practice. This means they have a high level of accountability and are required to adhere to ethical and professional standards.
What kinds of needles are used in dry needling?
Thin, sterile needles are used for dry needling. The needles used for dry needling are typically much thinner than needles used for injections, and they do not contain any medication. The needles are usually made of stainless steel and are available in various lengths and gauges.
The length of the needle used depends on the area of the body being treated and the depth of the target tissue. For example, longer needles may be used for deep muscles or trigger points, while shorter needles may be used for more superficial areas.
The gauge of the needle refers to its thickness. Thicker needles have a lower gauge number and are stronger and more durable, but may cause more discomfort during insertion. Thinner needles have a higher gauge number and are more flexible and comfortable, but may not be as strong and durable.
The needles used for dry needling are disposable and should be used only once to prevent the risk of infection. After use, the needles are disposed of in a sharps container to ensure safe disposal.
It is important to note that only qualified healthcare professionals, such as physiotherapists, should perform dry needling. They have been trained in proper needle insertion techniques, as well as sterilisation and disposal procedures, to ensure safe and effective treatment.
Where are the common myofascial trigger points?
There are many trigger points located throughout the body, and they can be classified based on the muscle group in which they occur. Here are some examples of common trigger points:
- Trapezius trigger points: These are located in the upper part of the trapezius muscle, which runs from the base of the skull to the shoulder blades. Trigger points in this muscle can cause pain in the neck, shoulder, and upper back.
- Levator scapulae trigger points: These are located in the levator scapulae muscle, which runs from the top of the shoulder blade to the neck. Trigger points in this muscle can cause pain in the neck and shoulder.
Gluteus medius trigger points: These are located in the gluteus medius muscle, which is located on the side of the hip. Trigger points in this muscle can cause pain in the hip and lower back.
- Quadratus lumborum trigger points: These are located in the quadratus lumborum muscle, which is located in the lower back. Trigger points in this muscle can cause pain in the lower back and hip.
- Gastrocnemius trigger points: These are located in the gastrocnemius muscle, which is located in the calf. Trigger points in this muscle can cause pain in the calf and foot.
It is important to note that trigger points can occur in many other muscles throughout the body, and the location of trigger points can vary from person to person. A trained healthcare provider can help identify trigger points and determine the best treatment approach.
Do we dry needle the trigger points, or areas further away from the pain?
Local, proximal, and distal needling are different techniques used in dry needling. Here is an explanation of each technique:
- Local needling: This involves inserting a needle directly into the trigger point or area of pain. Local needling is used to target specific muscles or areas of the body that are causing pain or dysfunction.
- Proximal needling: This involves inserting a needle into a muscle that is located near the area of pain or dysfunction. Proximal needling is used to target muscles that may be contributing to pain or dysfunction in a different area of the body.
- Distal needling: This involves inserting a needle into a muscle that is located further away from the area of pain or dysfunction. Distal needling is used to target muscles that may be contributing to pain or dysfunction in a different area of the body, often through the use of trigger point referral patterns.
The choice of needling technique will depend on the individual patient and their specific needs. Local needling may be more appropriate for patients with localised pain or dysfunction, while proximal or distal needling may be more appropriate for patients with pain or dysfunction that is more widespread.
Ultimately, the goal of dry needling is to release trigger points and improve muscle function, regardless of the specific needling technique used.
Is deep or superficial dry needling better?
The decision to use deep or superficial dry needling depends on the specific condition being treated, the location and depth of the trigger point or tight band of muscle, and the patient’s individual tolerance for discomfort. In general, superficial dry needling is less invasive and may be appropriate for more sensitive or shallow trigger points, while deep dry needling may be more effective for deeper trigger points or more severe muscular tension.
What are the differences between dry needling and acupuncture used in traditional Chinese medicine?
Dry needling and acupuncture are two different techniques that involve the insertion of thin needles into the skin and muscle tissue. While they may seem similar at first glance, there are some key differences between the two:
- Origin: Acupuncture originated in traditional Chinese medicine and has been used for thousands of years to treat a variety of conditions. Dry needling, on the other hand, is a more recent technique that was developed by Western medical practitioners in the 20th century.
- Theory: Acupuncture is based on the concept of qi (pronounced “chee”), which is believed to be a vital energy that flows through the body along meridians or channels. The goal of acupuncture is to restore the balance and flow of qi in the body. Dry needling, on the other hand, is based on the Western understanding of anatomy and physiology, and the goal is to release trigger points and improve muscle function.
- Needling technique: While both acupuncture and dry needling involve the insertion of needles into the skin and muscle tissue, the technique and depth of insertion can vary. Acupuncture needles are typically thinner and are often inserted at shallow depths along meridians or acupuncture points. Dry needling needles are typically thicker and are inserted directly into trigger points or areas of muscle tension.
- Treatment approach: Acupuncture is often used as a holistic treatment approach and may involve the use of additional techniques such as cupping or herbal medicine. Dry needling, on the other hand, is often used as part of a comprehensive physical therapy treatment plan that may include other techniques such as exercise or manual therapy.
Overall, while both acupuncture and dry needling involve the use of needles to treat pain and dysfunction, they have different origins, theories, techniques, and treatment approaches.
Who should avoid dry needling treatment?
While dry needling is generally safe and effective for most people, there are some individuals who may not be suitable candidates for this treatment. These include:
- Pregnant women: Dry needling is generally not recommended for pregnant women, especially during the first trimester.
- Individuals with bleeding disorders or taking blood thinners: People with bleeding disorders or taking blood-thinning medication may be at risk of excessive bleeding or bruising from dry needling.
- Those with an infection or skin condition: Dry needling should not be performed on areas of the skin that are infected or have a skin condition such as eczema or psoriasis. This is because the needles can spread the infection or aggravate the skin condition.
- Individuals with a fear of needles: While dry needling is generally well tolerated, it may not be suitable for individuals who have a fear of needles or experience significant anxiety around medical procedures.
- Those with certain medical conditions: Dry needling may not be recommended for individuals with certain medical conditions such as cancer, neuropathy, or a weakened immune system. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider before undergoing this treatment if you have any medical conditions or concerns.
It is important to discuss any medical conditions or concerns with a qualified healthcare provider before undergoing dry needling treatment to ensure that it is safe and appropriate for your individual needs.
Give Pollinate Health a call or book online for dry needling that is a complementary treatment to address musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction and get back to being pain free.