Dry needling is a technique used by trained physiotherapists to aid in alleviating pain from muscle tension, and can be used to treat joint, tendon, and muscular dysfunction. By inserting needles directly into muscle trigger points, the needling can help to release tension, improve blood flow, and stimulate the body’s healing response. This approach can benefit chronic pain, sports injuries, and muscular restrictions.
Dry needling can play a role in enhancing sports performance and injury prevention by improving joint mobility, flexibility, and muscle recovery. It could be used in the management and recovery from sports-related injuries such as strains, sprains, and tendinosis by helping to relax surrounding muscle tissue.
Needling will rarely be used as a stand-alone treatment and will likely be incorporated as a complimentary technique. Your physiotherapist will also likely provide you with exercises to assist muscle strength and flexibility to help prevent injuries in that area of the body.
Dry needling is minimally invasive, using thin needles that minimize discomfort. It can be customized depending on your response by adjusting needle depth and duration.
What conditions could benefit from dry needling?
- Chronic pain
- Neck and shoulder pain and tension
- Back pan
- Gluteal muscle tightness
- Tennis elbow
- Acute or chronic muscle strains