Acupuncture & Dry Needling for Muscle Pain

What is Dry Needling?

Dry needling (also known as medical acupuncture) is a relatively new therapy, having only been established in it's current form since the 1980's. We use dry needling to treat trigger points and taut bands of muscle fibres.

This therapy is based on the theory that trigger points and taut muscle fibres can cause nerve and muscle problems. These problems include pain, altered muscle function and increased strain upon surrounding muscles and ligaments.

The acupuncture needles are used to release trigger points and restore normal function to the muscle. This can produce a slight twitch sensation in the muscle fibres, followed by a warm gentle ache as the muscle relaxes.

Dry Needling vs Traditional Acupuncture

Without going into too much detail, traditional Chinese acupuncture involves placing the needles is specific areas called acupuncture points; only just below the skin. These points are situated along "meridian lines" which travel up and down the body, through which free flowing energy passes.

Dry needling on the other hand is much simpler in it's approach; needles are placed within muscles identified as hold excessive tension causing altered movement patterns. The presence of the needle within the muscle causes the muscle to relax allowing for an opportunity o retrain the movement pattern of that muscle.

Dry Needling Treatments for Muscle Pain

What is Dry Needling?

Dry Needling vs Traditional Acupuncture