Dry Needling is a technique used by physical therapists, chiropractors, and medical doctors to provide quick pain relief. It involves inserting a thin needle directly into the muscles that are stiff or painful. Research supports that dry needling improves pain control, reduces muscle tension, normalizes biochemical and electrical dysfunction of motor endplates, and facilitates an accelerated return to active rehabilitation.
Is it the same as acupuncture?
No, the only thing that is the same between acupuncture and dry needling is the needle. The goal of acupuncture is based on restoring “qi” (pronounced chee), which is a concept in eastern medicine meaning energy flow. Dry needling is based on western medicinal concepts for decreased pain and improved mobility.
How long before I see results?
Many people report immediate pain relief and most report some form of relief within 2-3 days.
What is Ultrasound Guided Dry Needling?
You may have experienced dry needling before but newer advances to the treatment allow us to utilize ultrasound imaging to see the tissue before and during the process. This allows us to more accurately select the areas that will benefit from dry needles. With ultrasound imaging, we can locate and avoid nerves and blood vessels, allowing us to needle areas that were previously avoided.