Dry Needling Services

What is Dry Needling?

Dry Needling is a method whereby an acupuncture needle is introduced into the skin and tissues below. The intended effect is to target a specific muscle group and restore normal muscle function. When combined with other treatment modalities, dry needling can be influential in accelerating pain reduction, healing and restoration of normal tissue function.

What is the difference between Dry Needling and Acupuncture?

The main similarity between the two is that the needles used are pretty much the same. Dry needling is based on on anatomical and neurophysiological principles, meaning primary care physicians utilise needling in conjunction with the latest medical science and research. Typically the needle is inserted into a hyper irritable area of the targeted muscle which provokes a “twitch response” which is thought to cause the muscle fibres in that area to relax, decreasing myofascial pain and improving circulation. Acupuncture is a key component of tradition Chinese medicine and whilst commonly used to treat pain, the principles are based upon balancing the flow of energy known as “chi” which are believed to flow through the bodies meridians (pathways).

Does Dry Needling hurt?

Generally, the insertion of the needling is not painful. The local twitch response can provoke muscle contraction which can potentially cause brief discomfort. Some soreness in the treated area can linger for a few hours up to a couple of days, however most clients report very little post treatment soreness.

Dry Needling is part of the treatment – not the whole treatment.

Dry needling can be part of your treatment if you want it to be. It is an effective tool when treating acute injuries, muscle spasm and mechanical imbalances. While it’s useful for treating pain it does not necessarily address the underlying source. Dry needling at Performance Health will generally be used in combination with education and a rehabilitation program in order to get the best possible results.