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By Peter Pascalis, Clinical Myotherapist Trigger point dry needling is a therapeutic method that has recently gained traction for its effectiveness in treating muscle pain and tension. If you're curious about this treatment, you're in the right place. This blog post will explore frequently asked questions about trigger point dry needling, including what it is, what to expect, its benefits, and more.  What is Dry Needling? Dry needling involves inserting thin, acupuncture-type needles into specific areas in the muscle known as "trigger points." These trigger points are hypersensitive areas that can lead to pain and discomfort elsewhere in the body. The primary goal of dry needling is to elicit a muscle twitch response, which helps reduce muscle tension and pain. Superficial dry needling (where the needle is placed just below the surface of the skin) can be used when deep needling is contraindicated or not well tolerated. This technique is used by many Myotherapists and healthcare professionals to treat various musculoskeletal conditions. Unlike acupuncture, rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, dry needling is based in Western medicine, focusing on the anatomy and physiology of the body. What Will I Experience? During dry needling, the needles used are very thin, and you might not feel the needle as it enters your skin. If the muscle being needled is tight, you might experience a mild cramping or twitch sensation, which is usually brief. Many patients soon recognize this as a sign of the treatment working. After this initial sensation, most people feel pain relief and increased muscle relaxation. Communication with your clinician is key. If you experience discomfort that feels excessive or concerning, let them know immediately so they can adjust their technique. Are There Any Side Effects? Like any treatment, dry needling can have side effects. Temporary muscle soreness is the most common side effect and may last for one to two days after treatment. Most clinicians recommend applying ice to the area or performing gentle stretching to alleviate soreness. In some cases, bruising may occur at the site of needle insertion. If you are worried about potential side effects, it is crucial to discuss them with your clinician before starting treatment. They can provide guidance and help you make an informed decision. How Does Dry Needling Help? Dry needling can provide significant benefits in various ways. One primary benefit is the reduction of pressure on nerves caused by muscle shortening, which can alleviate pain. The muscle twitch response during dry needling is associated with relaxation, aiding in tension reduction in nearby areas.Research indicates that dry needling can effectively treat conditions such as myofascial pain syndrome, tension headaches, and chronic pain. A study published in the Journal of Pain Research in 2020 found that 70% of patients with myofascial pain reported less pain after just one session of dry needling. By targeting specific trigger points, this technique can help restore normal muscle function and enhance overall mobility. How Often Will I Need Treatment? The frequency of dry needling treatments varies for each individual. Treatments are generally scheduled once a week to allow enough recovery time between sessions. However, the number of sessions required depends on several factors, including:
Are There Any Contraindications to Dry Needling? Before undergoing dry needling, it is essential to inform your clinician of any medical conditions or concerns you may have. Specific contraindications may prevent you from receiving this treatment, including:
What If I Have Some More Questions? If you have additional questions or uncertainties regarding dry needling, do not hesitate to reach out to your clinician. They are there to help you understand the treatment process and address your concerns. Open communication is vital for ensuring you feel informed and comfortable throughout your treatment journey. Final Thoughts Trigger point dry needling is a valuable therapeutic technique that can provide significant relief for individuals suffering from muscle pain and tension. By understanding what dry needling is, what to expect, and how it can aid in your recovery, you can make an informed decision about whether this treatment is right for you.If you are considering dry needling, consult with a qualified clinician who can guide you through the process and tailor a treatment plan to your specific needs. Your health and well-being are important, and seeking professional advice is always a smart move. With the right approach, dry needling can be an effective tool in your journey toward pain relief and improved muscle function. Explore this option and take your first step toward a more comfortable and active life! By Rachael Bird, Myotherapist Cupping therapy and dry needling are two distinct therapeutic techniques used in complementary and alternative medicine, each with its own benefits and applications.  Cupping Therapy Method: Cupping therapy involves placing cups, typically made of glass, silicone, or plastic, on the skin, creating a vacuum or suction effect. This can be achieved through methods such as heat (fire cupping), suction pumps, or manual suction. We, however, do not use the glass/fire cupping method. Purpose: The suction created by cupping is believed to increase blood flow to the area, promote healing, and reduce muscle tension. It is often used to relieve pain, improve circulation, and address conditions such as muscle knots, tightness, and inflammation. Techniques: There are different techniques of cupping, including stationary cupping (cups are left in place for a specific duration), moving cupping (cups are moved across the skin), and wet cupping (which involves slight incisions on the skin before cupping). Conditions Treated: Cupping therapy is commonly used for musculoskeletal issues such as back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, and sports injuries. Dry Needling Method: Dry needling involves inserting thin needles (similar to acupuncture needles) directly into specific trigger points, tight bands of muscle (known as myofascial trigger points), or areas of pain and dysfunction. Purpose: The goal of dry needling is to stimulate these trigger points or areas of muscle tension, causing a local twitch response. This response can help release muscle knots, improve blood flow, reduce pain, and restore normal muscle function. Techniques: Dry needling techniques can vary, including superficial dry needling (targeting trigger points near the skin's surface) and deep dry needling (reaching deeper muscle layers). The depth and placement of needles depend on the individual's condition and the therapist's assessment. Conditions Treated: Dry needling is often used for musculoskeletal conditions such as muscle strains, tendonitis, sciatica, headaches (including tension headaches), and chronic pain syndromes. It is frequently integrated into physical therapy and rehabilitation programs. Key Differences Mechanism of Action: Cupping therapy primarily works through the creation of suction to increase blood flow and release muscle tension, while dry needling targets specific trigger points or tight muscles with needle stimulation. Tools Used: Cupping therapy uses cups to create suction, while dry needling utilizes thin needles for direct insertion into tissues. Application: Cupping therapy involves placing cups on the skin for a period of time, whereas dry needling involves the insertion and manipulation of needles into targeted areas. Both cupping therapy and dry needling can be effective in addressing musculoskeletal issues and promoting pain relief and healing. However, the choice between them may depend on factors such as the individual's condition and preferences of treatment. Ready to find the right treatment for your pain or muscle tension? Whether you're curious about cupping therapy or dry needling, our qualified myotherapists can help you choose the most effective option for your needs. Book your consultation today to take the first step toward better movement, less pain, and faster recovery. By Ethan Farr, Sports Myotherapist & Exercise Scientist Plantar Fasciitis is a condition that has piqued my interest as I have also suffered from it and since I have had it I have grown a passion in treating it and fighting it off for good. But what is Plantar Fasciitis? Plantar Fasciitis is a musculoskeletal disorder characterised by heel pain that is exacerbated by weight-bearing activity and after extended periods of rest or sedentary behaviour - but what does this mean in english?  Fundamentally Plantar Fasciitis is a long term (comes up repeatedly over a few months) pain at the bottom of the foot this can be heel or arch of the foot. It is worse after sitting or lying down, and it is most commonly felt first thing in the morning when you get up from bed but can be brought on after long periods of walking or standing.
Studies have shown that Plantar Fasciitis affects 10% of adults in their lifetime and is most common in individuals between the ages of 40 and 60 years old, but can affect a younger population of habitual runners or those that are just highly active. Where does it come from/ how do you get it? Plantar Fasciitis is multifactorial but has commonly been linked with; High impact exercise; Obesity; prolonged standing/sitting; flat feet; occupational use of equipment like heavy safety boots; and is highly prevalent in runners. Common practice for the treatment of Plantar Fasciitis includes stretching and exercises for the muscles around the ankle and sole of the foot, as well as using orthotics for the shoes you wear, and potentially using a glucocorticoid injection (Ouch). Did you know that there is another treatment option focusing on pain management making it much easier to do everything you need to do day to day without that constant ache in the feet nagging at you - but what is this miracle cure? Say hello to myofascial dry needling or MDN for short, MDN is a technique used by myotherapists and other healthcare professionals to treat myofascial pain and muscle tightness. It involves inserting acupuncture needles into trigger points (or “knots”) in a muscle to stimulate a healing response and release tension. Not to be confused with acupuncture, which is based on traditional Chinese medicine and focuses on balancing energy flow, MDN targets muscular issues directly, aiming to alleviate pain, improve range of motion, and promote healing. Many studies have supported the notion that MDN can be used in the treatment of Plantar Fasciitis and some studies have found that the use of MDN on the gastrocnemius and soleus (muscles in the calves) had a statistically significant (≥95% of participants experienced improvement) reduction in plantar fascial pain moderate (2 weeks post treatment) to long term (4 weeks post treatment) for most subjects. What does this mean for you? With reduced pain you are able to do the exercise needed to help strengthen and support your ankle and heel meaning if you take an active role post treatment your Plantar Fasciitis may not come back. For others who may not be capable to be more active in their recovery the ability to be pain free for up to 4 weeks is enough and they can seek regular maintenance treatments monthly or bimonthly to control pain. Ready to take the first step towards relief from Plantar Fasciitis? Book your session at Simple Wellness Myotherapy today and experience the transformative benefits of myofascial dry needling. Take charge of your recovery and bid farewell to foot pain for good! Simple Wellness Myotherapy is located at Shop 12B/150 Kelletts Rd, Rowville VIC 3178 Contact us on (03) 8204 0970 |
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