Dry needling is a procedure commonly used by manual therapist such as chiropractors or physiotherapists to treat musculoskeletal problems. It involves the insertion of sterilised fine filament needle into muscles directly at a myofascial trigger point, which is an area of muscle which has been over exerted and developed “knots” that might cause pain around it. When the needle is inserted into the trigger point, it will help releasing the “knot” and results in a reflexive relaxation and lengthening of the muscle. This technique is commonly used to alleviate pain and stimulate healing by increasing circulation in the surrounding tissues.
Dry needling and acupuncture are two very similar technique used to improve patient’s condition. However, there is a difference between the two when it comes to the philosophy behind them. Dry needling focuses more on pin pointing areas in the muscle with increased tension and is based on western medicine with the knowledge of neurophysiology and anatomy. Meanwhile, the traditional acupuncture focuses on the energetic principles outlined in the Chinese Traditional Medicine and believes in restoring the flow of energy throughout the body with the help of acupuncture. Therefore, in traditional acupuncture, the needles are not necessarily placed into trigger points, but in points along the energy channels of the body.
Dry needing can be beneficial for a variety of musculoskeletal problems, which includes, but not limited to:
Mild side effects such as bruising, bleeding and temporary soreness are quite common with dry needling. Severe side effects including fainting or nausea may occur to some patients after dry needling, however, it is very rare for patients to have severe side effects and those symptoms should last no longer than 24 to 48 hours after treatment.
The needle used by practitioners are very fine, therefore, most patient will barely feel anything during the insertion of needle. Once the needle is inserted, some patient will feel slight aching of the muscle while others feel nothing at all. Sometimes, the needle may cause a small muscle twitch, which is a great sign as that shows that the needling will have a positive effect on relaxing the muscle. After the treatment, some patients may feel better straight away and some patients only feel better in a day or two later.
At Lakeside Chiropractic, our caring chiropractors are qualified and experienced with dry needling technique, therefore, you can rest assured that you are in good hands. Lakeside chiropractic is located in Joondalup in Perth’s north and has visitors from many different suburbs including, Padbury, Kinross, Mindarie, Sorrento, Iluka, Carramar, Currambine, Tapping, Pearsall, Hocking and Woodvale. HICAPS Facilities available on site for major private health insurers (NIB, HCF, HBF, AHM, HCI and HIF) and also a part of the Medibank preferred practitioner and BUPA Members first network. If you would like to discuss any concerns, have any enquires or wish to book an appointment; feel free to contact one of our friendly staff on 9300 0095 or visit our website at www.lakesidechiro.com.au
