Dry Needling Specialist

What is dry needling?

Dry needling is a therapy used to treat muscular tension and spasms, which are common side effects of injuries and chronic pain.

Inflammation happens when damaged tissue adapts a state of protective tension to guard against further damage. As a result, it’s harder for oxygen-rich blood to reach the injury and also for waste products to leave the injured tissue. The injury site, now decreased in oxygen, produces fibrosis or scar tissue. This limits the ability of the tissue to fully function properly.

Dry needling is an effective way to treat trigger points present in the muscle tissue and stimulate repair and healing.

Does dry needling hurt?

The trigger point needles used for dry needling do not have sharp, cutting edges the way a hypodermic needle does. Similar to acupuncture needles, trigger point needles are smaller and specialized, which makes them less painful than the needles you might be used to from getting shots or vaccinations.

Your practitioner inserts the needles directly into a trigger point on the muscle tissue, which immediately stimulates the body’s healing response and helps to reduce inflammation and pain.

What results can I expect from dry needling?

With dry needling, there is no medication required to alleviate muscle tension, and patients often experience incredible results.

In addition to addressing the trigger points within muscles, it’s also important to correct postural alignment and strengthen muscle weaknesses that may contribute to your symptoms. The team at Healing Rehab Physical Therapy SC identifies and corrects inefficient movement patterns and postural deficits to improve your recovery.

Your results from dry needling also depend on how closely you follow a therapeutic exercise program. Working with your provider, you’ll focus on correcting muscle imbalances, decreasing stress on the joints, and strengthening the areas that help to stabilize the body. It’s important to have strength and balance in your trunk and neck, which support your spine and allow your body to perform as efficiently as possible.

To learn more about the benefits of dry needling, call Healing Rehab Physical Therapy SC or book an appointment online today.