Dry needling is a form of treatment used by physical therapist used to treat decrease pain and dysfunction. It involves inserting needles into the skin and underlying tissue at specific points, known as trigger points, in order to stimulate the body’s natural healing response via increase blood flow. Its therapies can help reduce pain, improve range of motion, and promote faster recovery from injuries or chronic conditions. At Horizon Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation in Flint, Michigan, our team of physical therapists are specially trained in dry needling to provide effective treatments for our patients.
What is Traditional Chinese Medicine -Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is an ancient medicinal therapy utilized in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for over 2000 years. As a form of alternative medicine, acupuncture utilizes thin needles placed on points along the body to stimulate healing and improve overall health. It is believed that these needles promote the energy flow, which helps restore balance in the body. Other tools used in acupuncture include heat, acupressure and moxibustion. While its exact origins are unknown, the earliest written records of acupuncture come from the Han Dynasty (206 BCE – 220CE). It is believed to have been practiced for even longer than that before being documented. Acupuncture has become increasingly popular in Western cultures due to its effectiveness in treating a wide variety of conditions. Though it is still considered alternative medicine, acupuncture has been adopted by many medical professionals and is covered under some insurance policies. Today, acupuncture continues to be one of the most widely used forms of natural healing around the world.
Acupuncture’s non-invasive treatment of many conditions has made it a popular choice for those seeking natural healing from pain and illness. With its long history of success, acupuncture remains one of the most reliable forms of medical therapy available today.
What is the difference between dry needling and acupuncture?
Dry needling and acupuncture are two different therapies used to treat pain. While they have some similarities, there are also differences between the two.
Both involve the insertion of tiny needles into a patient’s body in order to provide relief from pain. However, the underlying philosophies behind these procedures vary greatly.
Acupuncture is based on traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) which believes that energy lines or “meridians” run through the body, and therapy should focus on balancing this energy. (Dry needling versus acupuncture is based on Western medical practices where it is believed that there are trigger points in muscles with restricted blood flow that can cause pain when stimulated with a needle.
Another difference is the number of needles used for each therapy. Acupuncture usually involves fewer needles which are inserted into points in order to relieve pain and balance energy levels. Dry needling, on the other hand, often uses more needles that are inserted directly into trigger points with the intention of releasing tension or breaking up scar tissue.
The type of needle used also varies between dry needling and acupuncture. Dry needling typically uses a monofilament needle which has a sharp tip designed to quickly break through tissue and stimulate trigger points. Acupuncture needles tend to be thinner and not so sharp superficial dry needling as they remain in place for longer periods of time as part of an overall energy balancing treatment plan.
Therefore, while both therapies involve the insertion of needles into the body, they are based on different philosophies and involve specific techniques to achieve different results. It is important to discuss with your healthcare practitioner which therapy might be best for you given your individual health needs.
What happens before a dry needling treatment?
During the treatment, your practitioner may ask for an examination to assess your medical history. It’s necessary to know whether dry needling works. They will explain to you what treatment will be and ask any questions you may have. During your procedure, the patient must wear comfortable loose clothes. Wear a device that lets your physician easily access your treatment area. Normally, the provider gives you the gowns and the coverings that you need to buy. It may be necessary to visit a doctor in your private rooms or curtains in larger rooms. Your clothes will adjust as necessary, and they will put your body at a suitable place to be treated.
What happens after a dry needling procedure?
Immediately following the treatment, your provider will remove the needle from the skin. Upon completing the process, the operatives put the needle inside a sharpie bag. Your provider then demands you rise gradually. When you feel dizzy, it is best to go to bed and take a nap before leaving. Make sure you drink enough hydration before treatment and continue with this. After dry needling treatment there will sometimes be muscle pain, but it will be necessary to continue to move. These are normal and can take between two weeks and 48 hours. You may notice bruises at the treatment site. The bruise will last 1-3 days.
How Does Dry Needling Work?
Dry needling works by stimulating the trigger points in the body that are associated with inflammation and pain. When these points are stimulated, the body releases natural healing chemicals like endorphins and serotonin which can help reduce pain and inflammation. In addition, dry needling helps to relax muscles that are in spasm or have become overactive due to injury or illness. This can help improve range of motion and promote faster recovery from injuries or chronic conditions.
What are the Risks of Dry Needling?
Dry needling is generally a safe procedure with minimal risks when done by an experienced therapist. However, as with any medical procedure there is potential for minor side effects such as bruising, bleeding, or soreness at the site of needle insertion. In addition, some people may experience dizziness or fainting if they are sensitive to needles.
How Painful is Dry Needling?
Dry needling can cause a slight discomfort or aching sensation during the procedure, but it should not be painful. Your therapist will take measures to ensure your comfort and minimize any discomfort you may experience.
What are the Benefits of Dry Needling Therapy?
Dry needling offers many benefits for patients suffering from muscle tension or dysfunction. It can help reduce pain and inflammation, improve range of motion, and promote faster recovery from injuries or chronic conditions. It can also be used to treat headaches and other neurological conditions.
Does Dry Needling Work?
Yes, dry needling has been shown to be effective in reducing pain and improving function in people with musculoskeletal pain. Studies have found that dry needling can provide short and long-term relief from various types of pain, including neck pain, low back pain and, and shoulder pain.
What is the Difference Between Acupuncture and Trigger Point Dry Needling?
Acupuncture and dry needling are both forms of various physical therapy treatment which involve the insertion of needles into specific points on the body. However, acupuncture treatments are typically focused on achieving balance in the body’s energy system while dry needling focuses specifically on treating musculoskeletal conditions by targeting trigger points associated with muscle pain or dysfunction.
What are the Different Types of Dry Needling?
At Horizon Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation in Flint, Michigan, our physical therapists are trained in several different types of needling techniques including trigger point, deep dry needling techniques, and myofascial release.
How Deep do the Needles Go in Trigger Point Dry Needling?
The depth of needle insertion varies depending on the type of treatment being or other physical therapy treatments being performed, and the specific area being targeted. Generally speaking, needles used for dry needling treatments range from 0.25mm to 3mm in length and can be inserted up to 5mm deep into the skin or tissue.
What are myofascial trigger points?
Myofascial trigger points are hyperirritable spots in the skeletal muscle. They are painful when compressed and can cause symptoms in other areas of the body, known as referred pain. These trigger points form as a result of muscle overuse or trauma, such as physical injury or emotional stress. Trigger point therapy is a form of massage that involves applying pressure to these sensitive areas in order to reduce pain and tension in the muscles. This type of therapy has been shown to be an effective way to manage chronic pain and improve range of motion and flexibility. Additionally, it can help with reducing headaches, improving sleep quality, increasing circulation, and relieving tension throughout the body. Ultimately, myofascial trigger point therapy can provide relief from muscular pain and discomfort, helping you to live a healthier, more active lifestyle.
Who trains physical therapists in dry needling?
There are several reputable companies that specialize in training physical therapists in dry needling for myofascial trigger point pain treatment. These include Kinetacore, Myopain Seminars, Evidence in Motion dry needling, and the American Academy of Manipulative Therapy.
Each provides comprehensive courses designed to help physical therapists develop a deeper understanding of dry needling techniques. The courses focus on anatomy and physiology as well as practical application of needle therapies for pain relief and rehabilitation. With hands-on instruction and practice, physical therapists can become certified in dry needling by these companies and offer this service to their patients.
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Additionally, many universities across the United States also offer courses related to dry needling which may be beneficial for those interested in learning more about this treatment modality. It is important for physical therapists to ensure that they are well-trained in dry needling before offering it as a service. Proper training can help ensure patient safety and provide the best possible care.
At Horizon Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation in Flint, Michigan, our team of physical therapists are specially trained in a variety of dry needling techniques to provide effective treatments for patients suffering from muscle pain or dysfunction. If you are looking for relief from pain and improved mobility, dry needling may be the right choice for you. Contact us today to find out more.
