Dry Needling
WHAT IS IT?
Dry needling involves the use of small acupuncture needles that are inserted into a muscle with an aim of releasing tension and easing muscular pain. The needles we use do not inject fluid into the body, hence the name “dry needling” (1).
Our needles are made from thin stainless steel. They are short and fine - 0.30 gauge and 50mm or 75mm in length.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
During Dry Needling, our practitioners insert small, fine needles through your skin into your muscle or area of tension. The needle creates a tiny lesion in the tissue, causing the muscle to contract. This in turn dilates the blood vessels and stimulates blood flow to the area. An increase in blood flow means an increase in oxygen and healing properties to the site (2). Dr Gab likes to say, “the needles essentially help the body heal itself”. The aim of dry needling is to reduce pain, promote healing, and improve range of motion.
DRY NEEDLING WITH THE TENS MACHINE
Our Osteopaths will often incorporate the use of the “TENS Machine” alongside Dry Needling. TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) is a method of pain relief involving the use of a mild electrical current. The TENS machine is attached to the needles and sends small electrical currents into the tissue. The aim of the TENS machine is to stimulate the neural pathway when a muscle is being particularly stubborn; essentially acting as a reset for the muscle, relieving tension for a longer period and stimulates blood flow to the tissue (3).
WHO DOES IT?
All of our Osteopaths are qualified in the use of Dry Needling and enjoy implementing it into their treatments. Our Myotherapist Sarah is also qualified in the therapeutic use of dry needling and will implement it into her treatment when necessary.
IS DRY NEEDLING APPROPRIATE FOR ME?
Your practitioner will personalise and tailor their treatment to suit you, your condition, and your recovery goals. The use of therapeutic dry needling can be very beneficial enhance the body’s response to treatment when indicated by the practitioner.
If you feel dry needling could be beneficial to you, speak to your Osteopath at your next appointment or call our friendly receptionists on 9872 5889.
REFERENCES:
1. Dry Needling vs. Acupuncture [Internet]. Healthline. 2022 [cited 11 April 2022]. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health/dry-needling-vs-acupuncture#TOC_TITLE_HDR_1
2. Gattie E, Cleland J, Snodgrass S. The Effectiveness of Trigger Point Dry Needling for Musculoskeletal Conditions by Physical Therapists: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy. 2017;47(3):133-149.
3. What You Need to Know About Dry Needling with Electrical Stimulation | Orthopedic Blog | OrthoCarolina [Internet]. OrthoCarolina. 2022 [cited 11 April 2022]. Available from: https://www.orthocarolina.com/media/what-you-need-to-know-about-dry-needling-with-electrical-stimulation