Trigger Point Dry Needling

The term “dry needling” is becoming an increasingly popular phrase heard in many chiropractic clinics across the world, and none more so than at Lilliput Health with all 6 chiropractors qualified to administer and treat using dry needling.

What exactly is it Dry Needling?

Dry needling is basically the practice of inserting ultra fine needles into myofascial trigger points/tension areas in muscles to help relieve sore, over active and tight muscles in the body (look at “what are trigger points?” in our Sports Massage Blog!).

Dry needling and acupuncture, while using the same types of needles, are two separate entities. Traditional acupuncture focuses on the flow or “chi” and body energy levels through the insertion of needles in certain specific points in the body relating to meridians and channels. On the other hand, dry needling focuses on a more biomechanical approach and achieves pain relief by deactivating trigger points and releasing some of the built up tension in the overactive muscles.

How does Dry Needling work?

The mechanism of how exactly dry needling works and produces fantastic results is constantly being investigated. However, it is suggested that when a needle is inserted into a trigger point, a “local twitch” occurs which is involuntary but can be felt by the patient and seen by the clinician. This “local twitch” may mechanically disrupt the contracted trigger point and help to loosen up the tight muscle. Moreover, dry needling also is hypothesised to stimulate neurological sensors and help to modulate pain signals. Lastly, inserting a needle into a trigger point can cause an increase in blood flow to the area which in turn helps to kick start the healing response to the overactive and tight muscle.

Nowadays, chiropractors, acupuncturists and other qualified health care professionals are using dry needling effectively in the treatment of myofascial pain and dysfunction. Our chiropractors at Lilliput Health utilise dry needling particularly well alongside manipulation.

To find out if dry needling could be effective in helping to relieve tight, overactive and achy muscles you may be experiencing, call Lilliput Health Chiropractors today on: 01202 725090 and book for a Free 15 minute Consultation.