Hey — Ariel here!
I’m one of Sweat Fixx Southie’s newest trainers but I am also a physical therapist and certified strength and conditioning specialist. A common treatment I use in my practice is dry needling– a quick, safe, effective treatment that helps decrease pain and reduce muscle spasms.
Over the past few months I have been dry needling Elise as well as a few other Sweat Fixx trainers who are absolutely loving the results. I thought this would be an awesome service to offer to our clients to help keep everyone healthy and pain-free! If you are prone to injury or struggle with tight muscles, dry needling might be just what you need to get you back to full speed.
In our Southie Studio on February 16th we are going to be launching new client consults and sessions for only $25. Book your 30-minute initial evaluation now before spots fill up! Space is limited and will be filled on a first come first serve basis. Email Elise@sweatfixx.com to book your spot.
Below are the most common questions I get about dry needling, so read on for more information!
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What is Dry Needling?
Dry needling is a skilled technique performed by a physical therapist using thin filiform needles to treat myofascial pain. Tiny monofilament needles penetrate the skin in order to elicit changes in underlying tissues such as muscles and fascia. The thin needle is inserted into an area of increased tissue density, also known as a “trigger” point, in order to restore normal muscular function and improve functional movement patterns.
What is a trigger point?
A trigger point is an area of increased tissue density, or a taut band of tissue commonly referred to as a “knot.” Trigger points are often sensitive to the touch, inhibit normal muscular movement patterns, and can cause referred pain to other areas of the body. When a dry needle is inserted into a trigger point, it elicits a muscle twitch response. The quick muscular contraction or “twitch” then allows for relaxation of the tissue in order to restore proper muscle function.
Is it the same as acupuncture?
Dry needling uses the same needles as acupuncture, however the assessment and treatment techniques are different. Acupuncture utilizes needles placed a different depths in the body in order to restore energy flow and “qi” in the body and achieve a level of balance. Dry needling addresses trigger points in specifically selected muscles based on a client’s functional movement patterns. Dry needles are inserted in order to elicit change in the muscle tissue and improve range of motion, decrease musculoskeletal pain, and restore neuromuscular function.
What are the benefits?
Dry needling provides immediate responses to the tissues and structures treated. The most common benefits of dry needling include improved range of motion, decreased muscle stiffness and soreness, improved tissue pliability and muscle length, improved neuromuscular recruitment and activation of muscle tissue, and decreased pain.
Why is it called “dry” needling?
Filiform needles used during dry needling are solid with a rounded tip. Dry needling is used to stimulate the muscle, not used for injection of any substances into the body. Dry needles do not have a barrel to house any substances and therefore is referred to as “dry needles.”
Is it painful?
The insertion of tiny filiform needles is often described as “uncomfortable.” The muscle may respond with a sensation of deep throb or a muscle twitch which is commonly described as “sore and achy.” Dry needles are inserted, moved around for 2-3 seconds, and then removed. Upon removal of the needle the client may feel some residual muscle soreness.
What can dry needling be used for?
Dry needling can be used to address musculoskeletal pain conditions such as but not limited to: low back pain, neck pain, nerve pain, shoulder impingement, rotator cuff tendinitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, tennis elbow, hip flexor tendinitis, hip bursitis, sciatica, patellofemoral syndrome, IT band syndrome, plantar fasciitis, shin splints, achilles tendinitis, and headaches.
What can I expect?
During a dry needling session, you can expect an initial evaluation of your functional movement patterns as well as assessment of affected muscles. When dry needling is performed, the client feels a small “pin prick” as the needle is inserted into the skin. The client then feels a deep ache in the muscle, similar to a muscle cramp. A spontaneous muscle twitch response may be elicited, which is often described as a “twitch” deep inside the muscle. Dry needling elicits changes in muscular function immediately. Following your dry needling session you can expect to have muscle soreness and/or achiness for 1-2 days, following by relief of pain and relaxation of muscle tissues.
What are the risks?
The most serious risk with dry needling is accidental puncture of a lung (pneumothorax). If this were to occur, it may require a chest x-ray and no further treatment. The symptoms of shortness of breath may last for several days to weeks. A more severe puncture may require hospitalization and re-inflation of the lung. Pneumothorax and infection are very rare complications (0.01-0.1%). Other risks include bruising, muscle soreness/fatigue, dizziness, headache, nausea, aggravation of symptoms, fainting, or emotional response.
Who should not receive dry needling?
You should not receive dry needling if you have any of the following conditions:
- Pregnant
- Compromised Immune System
- Taking Blood Thinners
- Metal Allergy
- <6 weeks Post-Surgery
- Infection or Active Tumor
- Arnold Chiari Malformation
- Cardiac Pacemaker
- History of Lymph Node Removal
- History of Abnormal Bleeding
How often do I need it?
Your certified dry needling practitioner will determine how frequently dry needling needs to be performed in order to elicit the most effective response. Most commonly treatment frequency ranges from 1x/week to 1x/month depending on your level of activity, pain levels, and treatment areas being addressed.
Can I keep working out after receiving dry needling?
Yes! Following dry needling it is recommended to continue to exercise and utilize your new movement patterns. Exercise following dry needling may help to alleviate muscle soreness.
After a dry needling session, it is also recommended to stay hydrated and stretch. Your practitioner may provide you with additional stretching and strengthening recommendations in order to maximize the benefits of dry needling.
Do you personally utilize dry needling?
Yes! Personally, I receive dry needling treatments 1-2x/month for shoulder pain and wrist pain. When I started working as a physical therapist and was using my hands for 7-8 hours per day, in addition to weight lifting 4-5 days per week, my left shoulder and wrist were in extreme pain daily. I was unsure if I would be able to continue weight lifting or even continue with my career. Managing my symptoms with dry needling has completely resolved my pain and restored my muscle function. I would highly recommend giving it a try!