The appropriate understanding of the technique, dry needling, is a part of a larger picture of physical therapy that treats the musculoskeletal system to eliminate pain and discomfort. The treatment is performed by skilled and trained physical therapists who are certified in the procedure. Dry needling involves the use of a thin monofilament needle that penetrates the skin and treats underlying problematic points in the muscles for proper management of neuromusculoskeletal pain as well as movement impairments. The technique may sound intimidating at first, but the following list of reasons make it pretty obvious why you should opt for this modality while seeking physical therapy for myofascial pain.
1 Proficient in treating a plethora of conditions
Dry needling is known to help with a multitude of musculoskeletal conditions. The overall plan that includes this technique is most probably integrated with manual therapy, heat therapy, and other modalities. This targets the presence of tight muscles and scar tissue that cause chronic pain in the body. Various joint problems and vertebral disk-related issues and spinal problems. Repetitive motion disorders like carpal tunnel syndrome and tennis elbow can also benefit from the implementation of this technique. It is useful in treating chronic conditions that cause pain due to the trigger points or knots in the muscles.
2 A modern science-based intervention
Unlike the therapy involving acupuncture techniques, dry needling has its roots embedded in western medicine. The expertise required by a physical therapist includes knowledge of the trigger points spread across the anatomy of the human body. The application involves a thorough evaluation of the pain patterns, postures, movement impairments, orthopedic tests, and functions. Such data corresponds with the findings of contemporary studies of modern Western anatomy to treat and manage muscular pain in an effective manner. It brings the nervous, muscular, and skeletal systems into a single cohort and coordinates their pain regulation mechanisms.
3 It is a safe and reliable method
Dry needling when performed by trained experts can make a significant difference. It is a quite safe method where the needle is inserted into the correct trigger point in the targeted muscles, it creates a local twitch response, due to involuntary contraction of the band of taut muscle fibers within the muscle. This reflex induces other beneficial responses like a decrease in the amount of spontaneous electrical activity generated by the treated muscles and length-tension. It will enhance the blood flow and oxygenation and aid hyperstimulation analgesia which is the stimulation of booth large myelinated fibers as well as C-fibers, which is achieved indirectly via the release of inflammatory mediators.
4 Accelerates the recovery process
Inactivation of the trigger points in the muscles through the needles results in improving the circulation of accumulated toxins and materials like lactic acid that hinder the recovery process by inhibiting the laminar flow. Adequate blood flow and increased supply of nutrition and oxygen along with it, do not allow the formation of scar tissue and complement the healing procedure perfectly. Dry needling when combined with other physiotherapy techniques can contribute significantly towards quick and complete recovery from injuries due to sports or accidents.
Wrapping up
Choose the incorporation of dry needling after consultation with a properly trained physical therapist. The modality shows little to no side effects and provides positive outcomes to several patients. Such trigger point therapy is an essential part of treatment action plans that are designed to treat lymphedema and alleviate myofascial pain successfully. The professionals go to great lengths to ensure that the patients feel comfortable and are treated with all the safety measures in mind.
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