Dry Needling. What is it?
Dry Needling is a technique that Physical Therapists use to help relieve pain caused from chronically tight muscles. Research has shown that this can positively affect mobility in the joints, circulation, strength, muscle and tendon healing, and has anti-inflammatory effects.
Hi my name is Alison Zeller, DPT (Doctor of Physical Therapy). In addition to my practice in the more commonly known elements of Physical Therapy, I am also certified in Dry Needling techniques and wanted to share with you just what exactly Dry Needling is!
Dry Needling is a technique that Physical Therapists use to help relieve pain caused from chronically tight muscles. Research has shown that this can positively affect mobility in the joints, circulation, strength, muscle and tendon healing, and has anti-inflammatory effects.
Dry needling is similar to acupuncture in that a thin needle is inserted into the skin and muscle but the science behind the two techniques is different. Body energy, or “Qi”, is primarily what guides the needle placement with acupuncture treatment. With Dry needling therapy, muscle anatomy, fascial patterns and presence of trigger points is primarily what guides the needle placement.
A “trigger point” can be thought of as a sore or tender region on the muscle that hurts when rubbed, in other words “a knot in the muscle.” Insertion of a thin needle in this area creates increased circulation, bringing oxygen and nutrients, facilitating muscle relaxation and healing. Sometimes trigger points can refer pain into other areas of the body. For example a trigger point in the shoulder might cause pain or discomfort in the elbow. Releasing the trigger point in the shoulder can fix the pain in the elbow. There are many referral patterns in the body! Who knew that knot in your shoulder was causing your elbow pain!
Stayed tuned to learn more about trigger points and their referral patterns!
Please call Cascade Physical Therapy at (208) 382-3359 to inquire about treatment.