What is Dry Needling and Why Do Chiropractors Use It?
Today, let's delve into dry needling—a technique utilizing acupuncture needles to penetrate tissues. It's a counterpart to trigger point injections but involves the direct use of needles without injecting any solution. Dry needling finds its application in three main scenarios: promoting inflammation for acute injuries, acting as a muscle relaxant for tightness or trigger points, and awakening dormant muscles. Whether it's accelerating healing, easing pain, or activating muscles, dry needling proves to be a versatile tool in our treatment arsenal.
One common question is, "What is dry needling?" It's the insertion of needles into muscle knots or trigger points, distinct from trigger point injections as nothing is injected or withdrawn—hence the term "dry." The technique is a key therapeutic approach in our office, complementing adjustments and rehab exercises.
Another often-asked question pertains to the pain associated with dry needling. Generally, it's not classified as painful. People may experience a slight pinch upon insertion and a deeper pressure as the needle reaches the trigger point. Muscle jumps or twitches are normal responses, not typically described as painful.
“Dry needling serves three primary purposes:
- promoting inflammation
- relax tight muscles
- sensory awareness”
In our practice, dry needling serves three primary purposes. It aids in promoting inflammation for acute injuries, relaxes tight muscles for pain relief, and enhances sensory awareness in challenging-to-connect areas, facilitating improved muscle activation and awareness.
Dry needling is a powerful tool for pain relief and muscle release, commonly addressing trigger points. These trigger points, essentially cramps laid down by the brain to prevent painful motions, are often found in tension-prone areas, like the trapezius muscle. When utilizing dry needling for trigger points, we pair it with exercises to open up the window for muscle release and pain reduction.
During dry needling, two common responses occur: the twitch response and the observation of referral patterns. These patterns guide our focus during needling sessions. Techniques like pistoning and twisting the needle are effective in calming trigger points and alleviating associated pain, setting the stage for post-needling exercises that teach the brain to maintain muscle relaxation and prevent trigger point recurrence.