What is Dry Needling?

Move Forward Physiotherapists are trained in dry needling techniques that can be used independently or as a important component of your physiotherapy treatment, it is the insertion of filament (acupuncture) needles into the soft tissues of the body to treat musculo-skeletal pain and dysfunction. The term refers to the use of acupuncture needles within western medicine practices, which is different to “acupuncture” which is based on oriental medical practices. There is constantly more evidence about the benefits and more greatly known as Physiotherapists refine the skill.

Trigger point needling

How does it work?

The difference between acupuncture and dry needling is most commonly because needling focuses on myofascial trigger points using acupuncture needles to deactivate the muscle spasm. With this method, the acupuncture needle is inserted directly into the trigger point and may be manipulated to assist with decreasing muscle spasm. These techniques are usually applied close to the area of pain. Research into the change in muscle activity following dry needling applied directly to the trigger points shows positive effects in the surrounding tissue. “Traditional acupuncture” is less steeped in research focusing on age old theories of body meridians.