What is Dry Needling?
What is Dry needling is a treatment technique in which a thin needle is inserted into the skin and muscle directly at a myofascial trigger point (MTrP) or a tight muscle knot. The needle targets the trigger point and creates a microscopic lesion that helps release the tension and stimulate a healing response. Dry needling is used to treat a variety of musculoskeletal conditions ranging from tight muscles, cramps, and spasms to chronic pain, tendinitis, and nerve pain. The technique is called "dry" needling because there is no injection of medication or solution. Dry needling is typically performed by licensed healthcare practitioners such as Remedial Massage Therapists, chiropractors, and acupuncturists, who have additional training and certification in this technique. At Athletica Collective all our therapists have been trained in dry needling by certified courses which involves extensive theory and practical assessments.
When should I get dry needling?
At Athletica Collective all you’re able to get dry needling during anyone of your treatments. Your therapist will determine if it is worthwhile adding into your treatment plan and will go over any of the associated risks involved depending on the area you’re getting Dry Needled.
If you’re experiencing any of the below
If you have extremely tight muscles and trigger point therapy isn’t releasing them.
If you’ve got headaches or neck pain.
If you have injured yourself in the past 24 - 48 hours.
If you don’t like really firm massage but need deep tissue work to help release tension.
If you suffer from lower back pain or have the feeling of ‘siatica’.
If you feel your muscle pain referring into other areas of the body.
Does it hurt?
The insertion of the needle should be painless. However you can experience some discomfort like an ache or heavy feeling within your muscles after the needle is inserted. Sometimes you may feel pain and if this is the case, let your therapist know right away so they can remove the needle right away.
What’s the difference between Dry Needling & Acupuncture?
Dry needling and acupuncture are two different techniques used by professionals to treat pain and other medical conditions. Although they both involve the insertion of thin needles in various points of the body, the focus and purpose of each method differ. Acupuncture is rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine and is meant to improve the flow of energy or "Qi" within the body, while dry needling is a more recent technique that aims to release muscle tension and treat pain caused by trigger points. Acupuncturists primarily insert needles into meridians or channels in the body, while dry needling practitioners focus on specific painful or tight areas of muscle tissue. Additionally, the training and certification requirements for each practice differ, with acupuncture requiring more extensive training.