What is Dry Needling?
Dry needling is an effective and efficient technique for the treatment of muscular pain and myofascial dysfunction. Other terms commonly used to describe dry needling include trigger point dry needling and intramuscular manual therapy.
Acupuncture?
Dry needling is not acupuncture, a practice based on Traditional Chinese Medicine and performed by acupuncturist, which tends to be a more superficial treatment that focuses on restoring energy or “Qi” to the body. It is thought there are blockages that can be restored by properly placing needles along energy channels called meridians.
What does it do?
Dry needling is a part of modern Western medicine principles and is supported by research. Preliminary research studies support that dry needling improves pain control, reduces muscle tension, and normalizes dysfunctions of the motor end plates (the sites at which nerve impulses are transmitted to muscles).
This can help speed up the patient’s return to active rehabilitation. Proper dry needling of a myofascial trigger point will elicit a local twitch response (LTR), which is an involuntary spinal cord reflex in which the muscle fibres in the taut band of muscle contract. This quick contraction of the restricted fibres leads to a reflex relaxation and of the bunched up muscular fibres.
This enables the return of adequate muscle length, normal blood flow and the release of toxins that may have built up from the previously poorly nutrient depleted area of tissue.This release can immediately improve range of motion, decrease pain and improve function.
Patients often feel a significant cramping sensation from the twitch response but then feel an immediate improvement of their symptoms. Dry Needling can be a powerful adjunctive treatment, though it is important to remember that it is only one part of the treatment component.
Our therapist will likely also address biomechanical muscle imbalances, postural dysfunctions, muscular flexibility limitation, strength deficits and swollen or stiff joints.
How Does Dry Needling Treatment Work?
In Singapore, dry needling is utilized to address muscle fatigue resulting from overuse. When muscles are overworked, they may experience an energy deficit leading to inadequate blood flow to the muscle fibers. Without sufficient oxygen and nutrients, the muscles struggle to return to their normal resting state.
In such cases, the tissue surrounding the trigger point becomes more acidic, causing discomfort due to nerve irritation. Dry needling involves the insertion of a needle into the trigger point to stimulate normal blood flow and alleviate tension. Furthermore, the sensation of the needle may activate nerve fibers in the brain, prompting the release of endorphins.
During the procedure, the therapist inserts a needle directly into the trigger point beneath the skin. They may adjust the needle slightly to induce a brief muscular spasm known as a “local twitch response,” indicating a reaction in the muscle. Many individuals report improvement following their initial session of dry needling in Singapore.
Does Dry Needling Treatment Hurt?
Trigger points typically elicit pain upon palpation, so you may experience some discomfort as your healthcare professional locates them before needling.
Throughout the needling process, you may also encounter sensations of discomfort. While some individuals may not feel the needle piercing due to its small size, others may experience pain. Insertion of the needle into the trigger spot can cause discomfort and trigger a twitch reaction.Following the procedure, the area surrounding the insertion site may feel tight or uncomfortable. However, it’s essential to continue moving and stretching to alleviate any discomfort.
What Happens Before the Treatment of Dry Needling?
Your therapist will review your medical history and do a physical examination before the dry needling treatment. They must decide whether dry needling is appropriate for you. If you are eligible, the therapist will address all the problems you have and discuss all the details of the treatment.
You must wear loose clothes on the day of your treatment. Wear anything that makes it simple for your healthcare professional to access the treatment area easily.
What are the Advantages of a Dry Needling Treatment?
Now that you have an understanding of what dry needling is, it’s important to recognize the myriad benefits it offers. This treatment method is widely considered safe and affordable. When performed by a qualified healthcare professional, the risk of complications is minimal.
Research indicates that by targeting trigger points, dry needling can effectively reduce muscle stiffness and soreness, ultimately improving flexibility and range of motion.
Studies suggest that by releasing trigger points, dry needling can help alleviate muscle stiffness and soreness, consequently enhancing flexibility and range of motion.
What are the Risks Involved in Dry Needling Treatment?
During and after treatment, discomfort is a common side effect of dry needling in Singapore. The other negative effects are not severe. They might consist of:
- Stiffness
- Bruising at or near the insertion site
- Feeling weaker than usual
- Fatigue
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Edge Healthcare provides a diverse range of services in osteopathy, physiotherapy, and healing. See our talented team of doctors and therapists who can help you with your issues. Interested in one of our services? Check our Services page for more info.
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Our practitioners are skilled at assessing your functional movement and how that is applicable to any injuries or pain that you may have.
Dry needling is an effective and efficient technique for the treatment of muscular pain and myofascial dysfunction.
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At Edge Healthcare, we provide tailored ergonomic assessments in Singapore and recommendations with postural education by our UK trained Osteopaths and Physiotherapists.
FREQUENTLY ANSWERED QUESTIONS
How long does dry needling relief last?
Relief can vary from person to person., but it can usually last for several days.
Does dry needling require a prescription?
Yes, dry needling requires a prescription you need to obtain from a doctor or therapist.
How often should dry needling be done?
Dry needling sessions are usually done once or twice except for some cases.
What are the risks of dry needling?
If done improperly, you can experience pain, swelling, bleeding or redness. Only get treatments from trusted clinics like Edge Healthcare.
What should you not do after dry needling?
Try not to work out or exercise after dry needling. It can make your soreness feel worse.
Does dry needling release toxins?
Yes. It helps in aiding with pain relief.
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