​What is Dry Needling and what does it do?

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Dry Needling, also called Western Acupuncture, is a more modern and alternate model to traditional Acupuncture. ​The technique uses a fine “dry” needle without a hollow centre inserted into specific points of the muscle to target trigger points. It is an effective tool for relieving myofascial pain as well as pain arising from joint arthritis. Research supports its effectiveness via various pain modulating mechanisms. It is used as an addition to your regular Chiropractic treatment, if indicated. 

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What does Dry Needling treat effectively? ​​

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• Chronic pain

• Low back pain

• Osteoarthritis

• Strains/sprains

• Tendinopathies​​

• Fibromyalgia

• Myofascial pain with the presence of trigger points

 

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What are trigger points and why do they occur?

 

It has been estimated that myofascial pain is responsible for 30‐85% of patients who present to a primary care setting or pain clinic with a complaint of pain. A trigger point is a localized, tender spot within the muscle that feels like a nodule, commonly referred to as a knot. It can cause dysfunction, such as stiffness or movement restriction, motor function problems including muscle weakness and decreased coordination, muscle fatigue, spasms, and often causes referred pain in another area of the body such as legs, arms or the head.

There are various reasons why trigger points build up, including chronic repetitive overload, poor posture, poor ergonomics, sprain/strain, joint wear and tear, nerve compression, scoliosis, anxiety leading to muscle tension and sleep deprivation. ​

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How does Dry Needling work?

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Imaging studies have demonstrated that the pin prick sensation changes brain activity that's responsible for processing pain, causing central inhibition or local analgesia of the area treated. It also stimulates the release of the body’s natural painkillers into the bloodstream, such as endorphins and serotonin. As a result, there is a reduction in the chemistry of stress biology (adrenaline and cortisol) and a reduction in pain perception.​​​

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How does it differ from Traditional Chinese Acupuncture?

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Chinese traditional acupuncture is the first reported technique in treating patients with dry needles and has been practiced for pain alleviation since 2500 years ago. Chinese acupuncture is different in that it's based on the theory of meridian energy channels that are networks of channels inside the body with acupoints along them. 'Qi', a vital force of energy, must flow in the correct strength and quality through each meridian in order to maintain homeostasis. These hypotheses have not yet been validated by modern science.

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What to expect during treatment?

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Dry Needling is generally not painful as the needles used are very thin. You may feel a small pin prick followed by a variety of sensations such as an ache for a short time. The needles are left in for up to a few minutes. Possible side-effects include drowsiness, sweating, and there may occasionally be a small bruise around the site of the needle.​​​