Dry needling is a therapeutic technique used by physiotherapists to treat a variety of musculoskeletal issues, particularly those related to muscle tightness, trigger points, and chronic pain. Ashford Physiotherapy is a clinic that offers this specialised service to help individuals alleviate discomfort and improve their overall physical well-being.
Dry needling involves the insertion of thin, solid needles into specific points within muscles, tendons, ligaments, or near nerves. Unlike acupuncture, which is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine and focuses on rebalancing energy flow, dry needling targets muscular trigger points and myofascial tissues to alleviate pain and improve function.
The term “dry” needling distinguishes this technique from “wet” needling, which involves injecting substances such as saline or pain-relieving medications into the body. Dry needling relies solely on the mechanical effect of the needle to stimulate healing responses in the targeted tissues.
Ashford Physiotherapy’s approach to dry needling begins with a thorough assessment of the patient’s condition. The physiotherapist evaluates the individual’s medical history, current symptoms, and any relevant diagnostic imaging to develop a personalised treatment plan.
During the dry needling procedure, the physiotherapist identifies areas of muscular tension or trigger points through palpation and observation of movement patterns. Once the target areas are identified, the therapist gently inserts the needles into the tissue, aiming to elicit a local twitch response. This twitch response is a sign that the muscle fibres are being stimulated, which can help release tension and improve blood flow to the area.
Patients may experience mild discomfort or a sensation of pressure during the insertion of the needles, but the procedure is generally well-tolerated. The needles are typically left in place for a short duration before being removed.
The benefits of dry needling may include:
1. Pain relief: By releasing muscular tension and trigger points, dry needling can help reduce localised and referred pain.
2. Improved range of motion: Addressing tight or overactive muscles can enhance flexibility and joint mobility.
3. Enhanced tissue healing: The microtrauma caused by the needles prompts the body’s natural healing mechanisms, promoting tissue repair and regeneration.
4. Muscle relaxation: Patients often experience a sense of relaxation and relief following dry needling sessions as muscle tension is alleviated.
5. Complementary therapy: Dry needling can complement other physiotherapy techniques such as manual therapy, exercise prescription, and education to optimise treatment outcomes.
Ashford Physiotherapy’s experienced practitioners ensure that dry needling is performed safely and effectively, taking into account the individual needs and preferences of each patient. They also provide guidance on post-treatment care and may recommend specific exercises or lifestyle modifications to support ongoing recovery and prevention of future injuries. Overall, dry needling offered at Ashford Physiotherapy represents a valuable treatment option for individuals seeking relief from musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction, empowering them to regain control of their physical health an