Dry needling is a treatment that healthcare providers use for pain and movement issues associated with myofascial trigger points.
Dry Needling involves inserting a tiny, monofilament needle in a muscle or group of muscles in order to release shortened muscle bands, increase blood flow, decrease referred pain and decrease trigger point activity. This can help resolve pain and muscle tension, and will promote healing. Dry Needling is safe and often an effective technique for patients with certain musculoskeletal dysfunctions. Dry Needling is performed by a skilled, trained Physical Therapist or Athletic Trainer, certified in the technique.
Dry Needling is not traditional Chinese Acupuncture, but is instead a medical treatment that relies on a medical diagnosis to be effective. It is based off Western medicine and is rarely a stand-alone procedure.