DRY NEEDLING
DRY NEEDLING
Targeted Treatment for Muscle Pain and Dysfunction
At Winelands Chiropractic, we offer Dry Needling Therapy as an effective technique to relieve muscle pain, improve function, and facilitate healing. This specialized treatment involves the precise insertion of thin, sterile needles (without medication) into trigger points or tight bands within muscles to alleviate pain and improve musculoskeletal function.
A myofascial trigger point is a hyperirritable spot within a taut band of skeletal muscle. They cause pain locally, especially with compression, and give rise to characterised local and/or referred pain, muscle weakness, decreased range of motion, and autonomic phenomena. Pain is caused by trigger points due to decreased blood flow and insufficient oxygenation within the trigger point. This results in a decreased pH, which activates pain receptors within the muscle.
Initially, taut bands are formed as a normal protective mechanism in the presence of potential or actual muscle damage.
Direct trauma to the muscle.
Muscle overuse (repetitive micro-trauma).
Unaccustomed muscle loading.
Sustained postures.
Stress and anxiety.
Targeted Muscle Stimulation: By targeting trigger points or myofascial bands, dry needling stimulates a localized twitch response, releasing tension and improving blood flow to the affected area.
Pain Relief: The insertion of needles can prompt the release of biochemicals that alleviate pain and promote tissue healing.
Muscle Function Improvement: Dry needling can help restore proper muscle function by addressing areas of tightness, reducing muscle spasms, and enhancing flexibility.
Muscle Pain: It's highly effective in treating muscular pain, such as neck pain, back pain, headaches, and other musculoskeletal conditions caused by muscle tightness or dysfunction.
Repetitive Strain Injuries: For individuals experiencing discomfort due to overuse or repetitive strain, dry needling can offer relief and aid in recovery.
Movement Restrictions: Dry needling can help address the limited range of motion or mobility issues stemming from muscular tension or imbalances.
Pain Reduction: By releasing trigger points and reducing muscle tension, dry needling often leads to immediate pain relief. The needles can trigger a neurological response, activating nerve fibres. This response can lead to a cascade of biochemical changes, such as the release of neurotransmitters like endorphins (natural painkillers) and other substances that help reduce pain.
Improved Function: Restoring proper muscle function and balance can enhance overall movement patterns and performance. Dry needling causes a mechanical disruption in the tight muscle fibres, promoting relaxation and releasing tension.
Accelerated Recovery: Dry needling can expedite the body's natural healing processes, facilitating faster recovery from injuries or chronic conditions. The insertion of needles can increase blood flow to the area, facilitating the delivery of oxygen and nutrients and aiding in tissue healing. Dry needling may also help reduce localized inflammation, promoting a more optimal environment for healing.