Medical acupuncture and dry needling are a part of Physiotherapy treatment. The goal of this treatment is to help to reduce myofascial tightness and Trigger Points that contribute to musculoskeletal pain, discomfort and dysfunction. A Trigger Point is the medical term for a “muscle knot”. A Trigger Point is a build up of chemical components within a muscle fibre due to injury, overuse, poor biomechanics/posture or repetitive strain. Dry needling and medical acupuncture have been well researched and medically recognised as a treatment for musculoskeletal conditions and pain. Medical acupuncture follows the acupuncture points based on Chinese medicine that correlate with Trigger Points. Medical acupuncture has been researched and clinically approved. Dry needling is based on the research of Dr. Travell and Dr. Simmons for the treatment of acute and chronic pain. Both medical acupuncture and dry needling have similar treatment principles with the same goals of treatment – to help you move better and feel better.
What is involved?
There are different types and sizes of needles used to treat different muscles and area. The needles are very slim and they are inserted into the muscle or acupuncture point for pain relief and to improve muscle function and length. The skin should be clean and dry before inserting the needle.
What will I feel when having this treatment?
You will feel a slight sharpness on the skin on insertion of the needle. You may feel a local twitch response or a little jump in the muscle. This is a normal response and is a good sign as it indicates the needle is in the Trigger Point.
What are the side effects of needling treatment?
Minor side effects include some localised bruising if a small capillary in the skin is broken. There may be some blood on removal of the needle. These effects are enhanced if there are any blood clotting disorders or even if the skin is thinner or more venous. If you have blood clotting disorders this type of treatment is contraindicated for you. If you also have any skin disorders or there is a risk of a skin infection this type of treatment is also contraindicated for you.
Other minor side effects may include dizziness or nausea. The treatment is done in lying to prevent any fainting. There may also be some post treatment soreness. It is advised to rest and ice the area needled after treatment and to stay well hydrated to prevent any post needling soreness.
More serious side effects include a pneumothorax. The risk of this is 1 in 1 million and your therapist will perform safe needling to avoid any serious side effects. If you do experience any shortness of breath, skin/lip discolouration after treatment, please seek urgent medical treatment.
Why is this treatment so effective?
This treatment is effective as it is treating the direct source of pain so that the muscle is able to function better and there is immediate pain relief and release of tightness from the myofascial structures. Back pain, neck pain, headaches, lower limb injuries and upper limb injuries, ligament and tendon injuries can all be treated with medical acupuncture and dry needling along with Physiotherapy techniques and individualised exercise prescription to ensure optimal outcomes.
Please consult with your Chartered Physiotherapist or email info@tmphysiotherapy for further details or information. To book an appointment today, click here:
