Canberra Dry Needling
Myofascial Dry Needling
Myofascial Canberra Dry Needling is a therapeutic technique that involves inserting fine, sterile needles into specific points within the muscles, known as myofascial trigger points, to alleviate pain and improve function. These trigger points, often called “knots,” can cause discomfort and restricted movement. By targeting these areas, dry needling helps release muscle tension, enhance blood flow, and promote healing.
Techniques Used for Myofascial Canberra Dry Needling
There are two primary techniques used in dry needling:
• Deep Dry Needling – Involves inserting the needle directly into the muscle tissue to reach the trigger points. This technique elicits a local twitch response, helping to reduce muscle tightness and pain [1].
• Superficial Dry Needling – Needles are inserted just beneath the skin’s surface, targeting subcutaneous tissue. This is often used for patients who may be sensitive to deeper needling or for specific conditions [2].
What is Dry Needling?
Dry needling is a modern therapeutic technique used to treat musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. Unlike acupuncture, which is rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine, dry needling is based on Western medical principlesand focuses on anatomical structures to relieve pain and improve movement [3].
What is Dry Needling Used For?
Dry needling is commonly used to address:
✔️ Muscle tightness and spasms
✔️ Alleviation of trigger point pain
✔️ Improved range of motion
✔️ Enhanced muscle function
It is often integrated into a comprehensive treatment plan to expedite recovery and restore normal movement patterns [4].
Common Conditions Dry Needling Can Help With
Dry needling has been found to be effective in treating various conditions, such as:
✔️ Chronic pain
✔️ Headaches and migraines
✔️ Tendonitis
✔️ Muscle strains
✔️ Lower back pain
✔️ Neck pain
✔️ Shoulder impingement
✔️ Sciatica
✔️ Plantar fasciitis
By targeting underlying muscular dysfunctions, dry needling can provide relief and improve overall function [5].
What Are the Benefits?
Dry needling offers several benefits, including:
✔️ Pain Relief – Triggering a twitch response reduces pain and muscle tightness.
✔️ Improved Mobility – Helps restore proper joint function and range of motion.
✔️ Accelerated Recovery – Increases blood flow and enhances healing.
✔️ Enhanced Muscle Function – Helps reactivate muscles and improve coordination.
Research suggests that dry needling can be highly effective for individuals suffering from chronic pain, sports injuries, and postural imbalances [6].
Does It Hurt?
The sensation experienced during dry needling varies from person to person. Some may feel a slight pinch when the needle is inserted, while others may not feel anything at all. The thin needles used in dry needling are much finer than those used in injections, making the discomfort minimal.
Once the needle reaches the targeted area, you may feel a brief muscle twitch or cramping sensation, which is a sign that the therapy is working. Most people find this technique tolerable and experience pain relief shortly after treatment [7].
Beyond Recovery: Prevent and Perform
In addition to treating injuries, I also work as a trainer and strength and conditioning consultant to help athletes improve their overall performance. By identifying and correcting any underlying musculoskeletal imbalances or weaknesses, I take a proactive approach that not only prevents future injuries but also enhances your athletic ability.
As a Certified Strength and Conditioning Coach, Personal Rehab Trainer, Accredited Acupuncturist, Massage Therapist, and Craniosacral Therapist, I combine hands-on techniques with functional movement and strengthening strategies to tackle the root of your issues.
References
1. Wikipedia. Dry Needling. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dry_needling.
2. Physio-Pedia. Dry Needling Overview. Retrieved from https://www.physio-pedia.com/Dry_Needling.
3. Cleveland Clinic. Dry Needling vs Acupuncture. Retrieved from https://health.clevelandclinic.org/dry-needling-vs-acupuncture.
4. Cleveland Clinic. Dry Needling Treatments. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/16542-dry-needling.
5. Medical News Today. Benefits of Dry Needling. Retrieved from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321989.
6. ProletePT. 4 Health Benefits of Dry Needling. Retrieved from https://proletept.com/4-health-benefits-of-dry-needling.
7. Cleveland Clinic. What to Expect from Dry Needling. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/16542-dry-needling.
8. Cleveland Clinic. Difference Between Dry Needling & Acupuncture. Retrieved from https://health.clevelandclinic.org/dry-needling-vs-acupuncture.