What is Dry Needling?
Dry needling is a technique that involves inserting fine, sterile needles into specific trigger points within muscles. These trigger points, often referred to as knots, can cause pain and discomfort. Dry needling aims to release muscle tension, improve circulation, and facilitate the body's natural healing processes.
How does it work?
Dry needling targets myofascial trigger points, which are areas of muscle fibres that have contracted and become tight. By inserting needles into these trigger points, we prompt a relaxation response, reducing muscle tension and improving blood flow. This can lead to:
- Pain Relief
- Enhanced Mobility
- Improved Function
- Tissue Healing
Your Dry Needling Session at Wynyard Chiropractic
During your dry needling session at Wynyard Chiropractic:
- Our experienced practitioners will identify trigger points through assessment.
- Fine, sterile needles will be gently inserted into the trigger points.
- You may experience a mild sensation, often described as a slight ache or twitch.
- The needles will be left in place briefly before removal.
What's the Difference Between Dry Needling and Acupuncture?
Dry needling and acupuncture are two distinct techniques with similar needle-based approaches. While both involve inserting fine needles into the body, their principles and applications differ.
Dry Needling: Dry needling is a modern therapy primarily focused on targeting muscle trigger points to alleviate pain and tension. It is rooted in Western medicine and is often performed by physical therapists, chiropractors, and other healthcare professionals. Dry needling aims to release muscle knots and improve muscle function.
Acupuncture: Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese practice that aims to balance the body's energy flow, or "qi," through the insertion of needles into specific points along energy pathways, known as meridians. Acupuncture is based on traditional Chinese medicine and is believed to have a wide range of therapeutic effects beyond addressing musculoskeletal issues.
In summary, dry needling is focused on addressing muscular pain and tension, while acupuncture is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine and aims to restore energy balance throughout the body.
Benefits of Dry Needling
- Pain Relief: Alleviating muscle pain and tension.
- Improved Circulation: Enhancing blood flow to promote healing.
- Muscle Relaxation: Reducing tightness and promoting flexibility.
- Enhanced Healing: Facilitating the body's natural recovery mechanisms.
A Safe and Effective Technique
- Our experienced practitioners will identify trigger points through assessment.
- Fine, sterile needles will be gently inserted into the trigger points.
- You may experience a mild sensation, often described as a slight ache or twitch.
- The needles will be left in place briefly before removal.
