DRY NEEDLING
AT BAYSIDE OSTEOPATHIC CLINIC
A technique for the treatment of musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction.
what is
Dry Needling
Dry needling is a technique for the treatment of musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. The treatment involves the insertion of a very fine, sterile acupuncture needle into a trigger point within muscles. The aim of this is to evoke a local twitch response, relaxing contracted muscles, thereby breaking the pain cycle and providing immediate benefits in range of motion of joints and pain relief. While further research is needed to definitively prove the benefits of the technique, it is now widely used by both orthodox and complementary healthcare practitioners.
HOW IT CAN
HELP YOU
Dry needling can be used to treat a variety of musculoskeletal problems. These include:
Neck, back and shoulder pain.
Arm pain caused by over use or repetitive strain injuries such as golfers elbow, tennis elbow and carpal tunnel.
Headache- including migraines and tension-type headaches.
Jaw pain
Leg pain including sciatica, hamstring strains, calf tightness/spasms.
Heel pain.
Buttock pain.
SOME
FAQ’s
Does it hurt?
The needles used are very fine and most people do not even feel them being inserted. The local twitch response elicits a very brief (less than a second) painful response. Some patients describe this as a little electrical shock; others feel it more like a cramping sensation. This local twitch response is what causes the muscles to relax, so is a good and desirable reaction.
Are there any side effects?
You may experience some muscle soreness over the area being treated and into the areas of referred symptoms. Typically, the soreness lasts between a few hours and two days. Recommendations to alleviate any soreness might include applying heat or ice over the area, gentle stretches, and modification of activities or analgesics such as Panadol
How long does it take to work?
For some people the results are immediate but typically most people will require 3-4 treatments to feel significant improvement.
Is Dry Needling the same as Acupuncture?
Acupuncte may use a variety of needling techniques and is based on traditional Chinese medicine. Dry needling is based on Western medicine principles and research. It is increasingly used in the management of musculoskeletal and sports injuries.
Are the needles sterile?
Yes, we only use sterile disposable needles.
Where does dry needling fit into my management?
Dry needling is a treatment option when it comes to treating acute injuries, muscle spasms or muscle pattern imbalances. It is very common to initiate dry needling at the beginning of your treatment programme in order to break the pain cycle. Once that is achieved, other treatment options are introduced.
I do not like needles. Do I have to have dry needling?
No. Before any procedure you are always informed and your consent is mandatory.