Dry needling (also referred to as IMS) is a therapeutic technique that involves inserting thin needles into specific points in the body, often referred to as trigger points. These trigger points are localized areas of tight muscle fibres or bands that can be painful and contribute to musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. Dry needling is used as part of physical therapy and other healthcare practices to alleviate pain and improve muscle function. Here’s how dry needling works for pain relief:
The primary goal of dry needling is to release or “deactivate” trigger points. These trigger points are often sources of pain and can lead to referred pain in other areas of the body. The insertion of the thin needles helps to mechanically disrupt the tight muscle fibers, leading to a relaxation response.
The primary goal of dry needling is to release or “deactivate” trigger points. These trigger points are often sources of pain and can lead to referred pain in other areas of the body. The insertion of the thin needles helps to mechanically disrupt the tight muscle fibers, leading to a relaxation response.
The insertion of needles into trigger points can increase blood flow to the area. Improved circulation can deliver oxygen, nutrients, and immune cells to the affected muscles, promoting healing and reducing pain.
Dry needling can induce muscle relaxation by releasing tension in tight and contracted muscle fibers. This can lead to improved muscle flexibility and overall function.
Dry needling may influence the nervous system’s response to pain and movement. By stimulating sensory nerves, the body’s perception of pain can be altered, and dysfunctional movement patterns can be corrected.
Dry needling may influence the nervous system’s response to pain and movement. By stimulating sensory nerves, the body’s perception of pain can be altered, and dysfunctional movement patterns can be corrected.
It’s important to note that dry needling is distinct from acupuncture, although they both involve the insertion of needles into the body. Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that focuses on the flow of energy or “qi” along specific pathways in the body. Dry needling, on the other hand, is rooted in Western medicine concepts and is primarily aimed at addressing muscular pain and dysfunction.