Muscle tightness and persistent areas of pain can be frustrating, especially when they start affecting how you move, exercise or get through your day.
One treatment that may be considered as part of a wider approach to managing musculoskeletal pain is dry needling.
But what exactly is dry needling, and what can you expect from a treatment?
What Is Dry Needling?
Dry needling is a treatment technique that uses very fine needles to target specific areas of muscle and soft tissue.
It is different from acupuncture, although both techniques use thin needles. Dry needling is generally used within a musculoskeletal treatment approach, with the aim of targeting areas of muscle tension or sensitivity.
Your practitioner will assess your symptoms before deciding whether dry needling is appropriate for you.
At Bodycare Chiropractic, dry needling treatment may be used alongside other techniques depending on your individual needs.
What Can Dry Needling Be Used For?
Dry needling may be considered when muscle tension or sensitive areas within the muscle are contributing to pain or restricted movement.
It can form part of treatment for issues such as:
- Muscle tension
- Muscle tightness
- Sports-related muscle problems
- Restricted movement
- Areas of persistent muscular discomfort
It isn’t suitable for every person or every condition, which is why an assessment is important before treatment.
How Does Dry Needling Work?
During treatment, your practitioner uses a fine needle to target a specific area of muscle.
The aim is to influence the affected tissue and help reduce sensitivity and muscle tension.
You may experience a brief twitch or local sensation during treatment. Some people also experience mild soreness afterwards, similar to what you might feel following exercise.
Your practitioner will explain what to expect before starting treatment and answer any questions you have.
For further information, Cleveland Clinic explains how dry needling is used and what patients can expect.
Is Dry Needling Painful?
Everyone responds differently to dry needling.
The needles used are very fine, and treatment is generally brief. You may feel a small prick when the needle is inserted, followed by a sensation in the muscle as the treatment is carried out.
It’s completely normal to have questions if you’ve never experienced dry needling before.
Your practitioner should talk you through the process and make sure you’re comfortable before proceeding.
Can Dry Needling Be Used With Other Treatments?
Yes. Dry needling doesn’t necessarily need to be used as a standalone treatment.
Depending on your symptoms and assessment, it may be combined with other approaches such as soft tissue therapy, chiropractic treatment, exercise and rehabilitation.
For example, reducing muscle tension may make it easier to work on movement or rehabilitation exercises.
You can learn more about soft tissue therapy and how different treatment techniques can be incorporated into your care.
What Happens After Dry Needling?
Some people feel a difference in the treated area straight away, while others may experience some temporary soreness before noticing changes.
Your practitioner may recommend gentle movement or exercises following treatment, depending on your individual circumstances.
It’s also important to remember that dry needling is only one part of managing an ongoing problem. If an underlying issue is contributing to your symptoms, addressing movement, strength and activity levels may also be important.
That’s where rehabilitation and exercise can play a role.
Is Dry Needling Suitable for Everyone?
Dry needling isn’t appropriate for everyone.
Your practitioner will consider your medical history, symptoms and individual circumstances before recommending the technique.
If you’re unsure whether dry needling is suitable for you, an assessment is the best place to start.
A qualified practitioner should also explain the potential benefits and risks before treatment.
When Should You Get Muscle Pain Checked?
Occasional muscle soreness is common, particularly following exercise or an increase in activity.
However, persistent pain, unexplained symptoms or pain that is getting worse should be assessed.
You should also seek appropriate medical advice if your symptoms are accompanied by significant weakness, numbness, swelling, fever or other unusual symptoms.
If your symptoms aren’t appropriate for treatment at a chiropractic clinic, you can be referred to another healthcare professional where necessary.
Could Dry Needling Be Right for You?
Dry needling can be one option for people experiencing certain types of muscular pain and tension, but it isn’t a one-size-fits-all treatment.
At Bodycare Chiropractic, treatment is based on an individual assessment, with different techniques considered depending on your symptoms and goals.
If you’d like to find out whether dry needling could be appropriate for your symptoms, you can contact Bodycare Chiropractic to discuss your options.
You can also meet the team before booking an appointment.