Dry needling
Dry needling is a common technique used to provide pain relief, restore range of motion, and aid recovery so that an individual can return to their normal activity faster and more comfortably.
Dry needling works with the body's natural response systems. We use acupuncture needles that are inserted strategically into pressure points and acupressure points. The microtrauma stimulus of the needle entering the body sends a message to the brain and spinal cord that releases the oxygenated red blood cells that aid with healing and recovery. The blood cells that flood the area of the microtrauma assist with releasing the fibers of a tight muscle, healing injured tissue and allowing for pain relief and increased function.
Results gained from dry needling often are felt and seen immediately, and the effects can continue to work for 7-10 days after the treatment.
Depending on the area of the body that receives the dry needling, soreness can be expected for a day or two, but then relief will be present. The response to the microtrauma is an inflammatory response. This is how our bodies heal and regenerate. When inflammation is introduced, the body knows what it needs to do (send in the good guys—the red blood cells) to help the body part recover. The initial inflammatory response may make you sore for a day or two, but that means your body is working to heal and recover. The initial soreness is actually a good thing, as it can be evidence that the treatment is working!
Psst… Check out the “Dry Needling” highlight on our Instagram to see Dry Needling in action!
How many times do I need to get dry needled to take care of my problem?
It can vary from person to person and problem to problem. It may take just one time to take care of the problem, but can also take 3-4 or more treatments. It often depends on the area of the body that is challenged and the length of time the problem has been present.
What should I avoid doing after a dry needling session?
It's best to avoid the following:
Anti-inflammatory medication - it negates the process of the dry needling
Applying ice to the area - it negates the process of dry needling
Sitting, standing, or laying for prolonged periods of time (except sleep, of course! ☺)
Can I be active right after I have been dry needled?
YES! We encourage you to move, move, move. The type of soreness created by dry needling is similar to that soreness you feel after a hard workout. The best way to reduce the onset of soreness or help the soreness recover quickly, is to move. You can work out right after, you can hike, run, walk, bike, do housework and pretty much anything you would like to do. The only thing we don’t recommend is trying to perform a maximum effort activity the same day that you receive the treatment.
What should I do after a dry needling session to make it most effective?
Use a heating pad or hot shower (Heat enhances the blood flow that the dry needling ignited)
Move, move, move
If the soreness is fairly uncomfortable, you can take Tylenol