Trigger Point Dry Needling
Dry needling is a revolutionary pain-relieving procedure performed by our Physical Therapists who are Certified Myofascial Trigger Point Therapists (CMTPT) through Myopain Seminars, the premier institute for training. The procedure involves inserting a needle into the skin and muscle, aimed directly at a myofascial trigger point, which elicits a twitch response. Myofascial trigger points consist of multiple contraction knots related to the maintenance of the pain cycle. They are known to be involved in acute and chronic, localized, and widespread pain including common conditions such as migraines, headaches, fibromyalgia, Achilles tendonitis, sciatica, and tennis elbow and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Dry needling has been proven to reduce muscle tension, promote healing, and increase range of motion.
For more information about our dry needling services, listed below are common questions and answers:
Is dry needling the same as acupuncture?
There are many similarities and differences between dry needling and acupuncture. Licensed physical therapists in a growing number of states use dry needling under the scope of their practice. Dry needling also falls within the scope of acupuncture practice. In contrast to most schools of acupuncture, dry needling is strictly based on Western medicine principles and research.
How does dry needling work?
Based on pioneering studies by Dr. Jay Shah and colleagues at the National Institutes of Health, we know that inserting a needle into trigger points causes favorable biochemical changes, which assist in reducing pain message transportation and breaking the pain cycle. Eliciting a local twitch response, a spinal cord reflex, relaxes the muscle by restoring its normal neuromuscular function.
What type of problems are treated with dry needling?
Dry needling is utilized to treat a variety of musculoskeletal problems. Conditions include, but are not limited to, neck, back and shoulder pain, arm pain (tennis elbow, carpal tunnel, golfer’s elbow), headaches (including migraine and tension type), temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction, sciatica, Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, whiplash, and fibromyalgia. Dry needling is also very effective in treating acute muscular dysfunction due to strains, sprains, and surgery.
Is the procedure painful?
Most patients do not feel the insertion of the needle. The local twitch response elicits a brief (less than a second) painful response. Most patients describe this as an aching or cramping sensation, some as a little electrical shock. The twitch response is a desirable reaction, as it facilitates treatment.
Are the needles sterile?
Absolutely! We only use sterile, disposable needles.
At HOPE Physical Therapy & Wellness we believe that the client’s input is invaluable. If this service is an interest for your wellness needs, please CONTACT us here or call us at 719-466-6800 to schedule your FREE 15-minute consultation with one of our physical therapists.
You can also send us an email: info@hope4wellness.com
You can also check out many of the other SERVICES we offer or get more information on our WELLNESS PROGRAM.