Dry needling can benefit those experiencing or suffering from soreness, tightness and stiffness of the body. The muscles go through wear and tear. The areas where soreness and tightness are felt are known as trigger points. The discomfort can be effectively addressed with dry needling.
In myotherapy, a trained and experienced myotherapist is able to utilise dry needling to alleviate the pain and discomfort experienced by a patient.
This is done by inserting a fine needle into areas where there is tightness and stiffness, such as the trigger points, which block pain messages to the brain.
Done correctly, it is a highly effective method of treating muscular pain.
Dry needling is not suitable for everyone. Those not suited for dry needling include:
• People with needle phobia
• Those suffering from high blood pressure
• Pregnant women in general
• Individuals suffering from infection, colds and flu
• Those with open wounds
During treatment, a twitch or spasm in the muscle fibre is to be expected. Patients also often feel a sense of relaxation during treatment. This is due to the body’s natural response and neurocircuitry activity.
It is also common for an individual to feel tired or heaviness in the limb after treatment, as this indicates that the body is in the process of reaping the benefits of the treatment.
Do remember to rest and take in fluids to help facilitate the process.
Trigger points, as the name suggests, are points where the pain actually stems from. These areas are also known as “knots” in the body. A trigger point may be far removed from the spot where the pain is felt.
If left untreated, they can influence the way the body’s muscles function, which can cause even more severe pain in the future. The body is amazing at making up for shortcomings to compensate for loss, but while this is welcomed for a short period - an extensive period may be detrimental.
Addressing the issue is therefore highly recommended. A trained and experienced myotherapist is able to locate these trigger points and alleviate the pain.
There are different ways to treat trigger points. These range from deep tissue massage and stretching to dry needling.Dry needling is one of the most effective pain management treatments.
Many people have experienced relief and benefited from the treatment. The needles used are very fine and discomfort or pain, if any, is very minimal. Nonetheless, should the pain be a little overbearing, it is recommended to alert the therapist.
The session can be done with multiple needles as required in accordance with the number of trigger points in one session. The number of sessions needed will be discussed and informed by the therapist.
Some people experience a dull ache. After treatment, you may experience slight twitching or minor muscle aches and soreness.
A needle is inserted about THREE to FOUR mm above the trigger point. This sets off several processes in the body to facilitate the treatment of the affected area.
This is dependent on a patient’s condition and severity. The therapist will be in a position to give better advice and make a recommendation according to the needs of a patient.
Aside from pain relief, dry needling is also effective in addressing “knots” and tightness.
It is a method of releasing toxins from the body, particularly that causes inflammations to the trigger points. A reduction in inflammation together with improved blood flow helps to reduce and alleviate discomfort and pain in the affected areas.
During treatment, a patient may feel a sense of relaxation. It is also common for an individual to feel tired or heaviness in the limb after treatment.
Dry needling done on trigger points loosens stiff and tight muscles. It is an effective method of alleviating discomfort and pain, and it enables the muscles to relax.
Dry needling is not the same as acupuncture. The primary philosophy behind acupuncture is releasing chi or healing energy to activate healing.
Administered by our myotherapist, dry needling involves the application of strong stimulation to the muscles to release tension.