Dry needling is a form of physiotherapy that uses thin needles to target muscle trigger points. Unlike traditional acupuncture, dry needling is based on Western medical principles and is performed by physiotherapists who have been specifically trained in this technique. Dry needling can be an effective treatment option for a wide range of sports injuries, including tennis elbow, hamstring strains, and runner's knee. In this blog post, we'll explore the science behind dry needling and how it can help athletes and others find relief from pain.
Dry needling is a technique that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points in the muscle, known as trigger points. These trigger points are areas of muscle that have become tight and knotted, often as a result of overuse or injury. When the needle is inserted into the trigger point, it creates a neurological reaction that makes the tissue relax. This results in improved blood flow, reduced muscle tension, and an increase in the release of natural pain-relieving chemicals, such as endorphins.
During a dry needling session, the physiotherapist will use a sterile needle to penetrate the skin and target the trigger point within the muscle. The needle is then moved in various directions to release the tension within the muscle.
Once the needle is inserted, the physiotherapist may manipulate the needle to achieve a better release of the trigger point. The needle is left in place for a certain period of time, usually between a few minutes to 30 minutes, depending on the case.
After the needle is removed, the muscle may feel sore and tender for a short period. However, this soreness usually subsides within a few hours or a day, and is replaced by an improvement in pain, muscle function and flexibility.
Dry needling can be effective in treating a wide range of conditions including chronic pain, headaches, muscle strains, tendinopathies, and even nerve entrapments. Dry needling is a safe and effective treatment option for many people when performed by a trained and qualified physiotherapist. It can be used alone or in conjunction with other physiotherapy treatments to achieve the best possible outcome for the patient.
Dry needling can be used to treat a wide range of sports injuries, including those that affect the muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Some of the most common injuries that can be treated with dry needling include:
Tennis elbow: This is a condition that causes pain and inflammation on the outer part of the elbow, often as a result of overuse. Tennis elbow is caused by overuse of the muscles and tendons that extend the wrist and fingers, which can lead to small tears in the tendons that attach to the lateral epicondyle (the bony bump on the outer side of the elbow). Dry needling can help to reduce pain and improve function in the affected arm by releasing the tension in the muscles and tendons that are causing the pain.
Hamstring strains: Hamstring injuries are common in athletes, especially those who participate in sports that require sprinting and jumping. Hamstring strains can range from a mild strain to a complete tear. Dry needling can help to reduce muscle tension, improve blood flow, and promote healing by releasing the tension in the affected muscles. Additionally, dry needling can help to improve the flexibility and strength of the affected muscles, which can help to prevent future injuries.
Runner's knee: This is a common overuse injury that causes pain around the kneecap (patella). Runner's knee is often caused by overuse of the quadriceps muscles, which can lead to muscle imbalances and improper tracking of the patella. Dry needling can help to reduce pain and improve function in the affected knee by releasing tension in the quadriceps muscles and improving muscle balance. Additionally, dry needling can help to improve the flexibility and strength of the affected muscles, which can help to prevent future injuries.
It's worth noting that dry needling is not the only treatment option for sports injuries, and it's usually used in conjunction with other physiotherapy techniques such as exercises, stretching, and manual therapy to achieve the best possible outcome for the patient.
Dry needling is a powerful tool in the physiotherapist's arsenal for the treatment of sports injuries. By targeting muscle trigger points, dry needling can help to reduce pain, improve function, and promote healing. While more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind dry needling, the current evidence supports its use as a safe and effective treatment option for a wide range of conditions. If you're interested in learning more about dry needling and how it can help you find relief from your sports injuries, don't hesitate to contact the physiotherapists at Human Integrated Performance for more information. They will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have and help you determine if dry needling is the right treatment option for you.
Dry needling is considered a safe treatment option when performed by a trained and qualified physiotherapist. As with any medical procedure, there are potential risks and side effects, such as bleeding or infection, but these are rare.
The number of dry needling sessions required will vary depending on the individual and the condition being treated. Some people may find relief after just one or two sessions, while others may need several sessions to achieve the desired result. Your physiotherapist will be able to give you a more accurate estimate after an initial assessment.
Yes, dry needling can be used in conjunction with other physiotherapy treatments such as exercises, stretching, and manual therapy. This can help to achieve the best possible outcome for the patient. Your physiotherapist will create a personalized treatment plan that incorporates dry needling as well as other therapies that are appropriate for your specific condition.