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What is Dry Needling?

Dry Needling is the technique of releasing myofascial trigger points using fine, sterile acupuncture needles that work locally and directly.

This technique has been used for centuries to relieve tension in overworked muscles, and to improve the quality of muscle tissue.

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What’s the Difference Between Dry Needling and Acupuncture?

Dry Needling is not the same as acupuncture, although there are similarities between the two techniques. The main difference between Dry Needling and acupuncture is the theory behind how the techniques work.

Dry Needling is primarily focused on the reduction of pain and restoration of function through the release of myofascial trigger points in a muscle.

In comparison, acupuncture focuses on the treatment of medical conditions by restoring the flow of energy (Qi) through key points in the body (meridians) to restore balance.

 

What is the Purpose/Goal of Dry Needling?

Dry Needling treatment can be used to:

• help release myofascial trigger points (muscle knots);

• assist with reducing odemea/swelling and inflammation. 

• restore movement at a joint if inhibited by myofascial trigger points

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How does Dry Needling Work?

When inserted into tender taut bands in muscles known as myofascial trigger points, the needle will cause the relaxation of muscle constriction in that band and its associated symptoms. This technique is known as ‘dry needling’.

The effects include the promotion of local healing, the reduction of pain and is effectively used to inactivate myofascial trigger points and tightness.

Your podiatrist will locate the most sensitive/tender trigger points in the muscles for needling. Massage is used in combination with dry needling.

The more severe the pain presentation the more likely you will be requiring follow up needling sessions to fully release all the involved triggers.

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How Can Dry Needling Help My Foot Pain or Aching Legs?

During a Dry Needling treatment, you may feel a slight sting as the needle is inserted and removed. However, this discomfort should last no longer than a second before settling.

It mediates a brief local twitch response of its taut muscle fibres when adequately stimulated/needled. This may occur during treatment when the needle is inserted into a myofascial trigger point.

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Is Dry Needling Safe?

Yes, dry needling is safe.

In relation to the foot, it is safe to have dry needling when pregnant. All needles used will be sterilized, single use, disposable, stainless steel needles of fine diameter.

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Will Dry Needling Interfere with My Exercise Goals?

Dry needling will not have a negative impact on exercise goals or regime.
It will help restore function and range of motion to problematic areas.
It is to be used with over modalities as discussed above.

Stretching is important when having treatment. Please follow the recommendations as directed by your podiatrist.

Other rehabilitation exercises and maintaining appropriate level of activity are also important. Exercising after treatment is therapeutic so, if you have post treatment pain, exercise is better than rest.

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