Several treatment options are available for managing pain and promoting physical well-being. One intervention gaining popularity in recent years is dry needling. However, like any emerging medical practice, dry needling has its fair share of myths and misconceptions. We have many dry-needling-certified physical therapists on our team at EW Motion Therapy, and they may suggest the treatment if they feel it would benefit your specific condition. Even if you decide that our services do not fit your needs, you can still read on as we delve into the facts, debunk the myths, and explore the benefits of this treatment.
Myth #1: Dry needling is the same as acupuncture.
While dry needling and acupuncture both involve thin needles, they are different practices with different underlying principles. Here are the main differences between dry needling and acupuncture:
Origin and philosophy
- Acupuncture: Acupuncture is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine and has been practiced for thousands of years. It is based on balancing the body's energy flow, known as Qi, along specific meridians or pathways.
- Dry needling: Dry needling, on the other hand, is a more modern Western approach to treating musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. It is based on neuroanatomy and evidence-based medicine. Dry needling targets muscular trigger points to release tension and alleviate pain.
Purpose and focus
- Acupuncture: The primary purpose of acupuncture is to restore the balance of energy flow throughout the body, addressing a wide range of physical, emotional, and energetic conditions.
- Dry needling: Dry needling primarily focuses on relieving musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction by targeting specific trigger points within muscles. It aims to reduce muscle tension, improve range of motion, and promote tissue healing.
Needle insertion techniques
- Acupuncture: In acupuncture, needles are typically inserted at specific acupuncture points along meridians, which may be located far from the area of pain or discomfort.
- Dry needling: Dry needling involves the insertion of thin, solid needles directly into myofascial trigger points or tight muscle bands within the affected muscles. The needle insertion targets the specific area of pain or dysfunction.
Needle manipulation
- Acupuncture: Acupuncture needles are often inserted to a certain depth and may be stimulated by gentle twisting, twirling, or manual manipulation. Some acupuncture techniques also include heat or electrical stimulation.
- Dry needling: In dry needling, the needles are typically inserted and remain stationary without manipulation. However, the therapist may gently advance or withdraw the needle to elicit specific responses from the muscles.
Training and regulation
- Acupuncture: Acupuncture is a regulated healthcare profession in many countries. Practitioners undergo extensive training in traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture techniques, meridian theory, and diagnosis.
- Dry needling: Dry needling is typically performed by licensed healthcare professionals, such as physical therapists or chiropractors, who have received specialized training. The training focuses on anatomy, neurophysiology, and the safe and effective use of dry needling.
While dry needling and acupuncture are different practices, they can complement each other. Some practitioners may integrate both techniques within their treatment approaches to provide comprehensive care. When considering either dry needling or acupuncture, it is recommended to consult with a qualified healthcare professional who can assess your specific condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment for your needs.
Myth #2: Dry needling is extremely painful.
It's natural to associate needles with pain, but the discomfort is often minimal in the case of dry needling. The needles used in this therapy are extremely thin and solid, unlike hypodermic needles used for injections. Most individuals report feeling only a slight prick or tingling during treatment. Additionally, the experienced therapists ensure the procedure is as comfortable as possible, making it easier to tolerate.
Electrical stimulation is sometimes used with dry needling, but it does not make the procedure more painful. Electrical stimulation can enhance the therapeutic effects and reduce discomfort. It involves the application of a mild electrical current to the needles inserted during dry needling. This current can be adjusted to various frequencies and intensities, depending on the specific treatment goals and individual patient response.
The electrical stimulation serves several purposes during dry needling:
- Enhanced muscle response: The therapist can elicit muscle contractions and cramps in the targeted area by applying an electrical current. This response helps release tension, improve circulation, and promote tissue healing.
- Increased pain modulation: The electrical stimulation can activate the body's natural pain-modulating mechanisms, such as releasing endorphins and enkephalins. These substances can help reduce pain perception and promote well-being during and after the treatment.
- Improved treatment precision: Electrical stimulation can help locate and target specific trigger points more accurately by inducing localized muscle responses. This allows the therapist to identify areas of heightened sensitivity and effectively address them.
While electrical stimulation can enhance the therapeutic benefits of dry needling, the intensity of the electrical current is typically adjusted to a level that is comfortable and tolerable for the individual. The sensation experienced during electrical stimulation is often described as a mild tingling or pulsating feeling rather than intense pain.
Myth #3: Dry needling is only for athletes.
While it is true that athletes often seek dry needling to aid in their recovery and enhance performance, this therapy is not limited to sports-related injuries. Dry needling can effectively address musculoskeletal conditions, including chronic pain, muscle spasms, joint problems, migraine headaches, and even fibromyalgia. It suits people from various walks of life, regardless of athletic involvement.
Myth #4: Dry needling is a standalone treatment.
Dry needling is often used with other physical therapy techniques and modalities to achieve optimal results. Your therapist can integrate the treatment into a comprehensive rehabilitation plan that may include exercises, manual therapy, and other forms of pain management. Combining dry needling with these therapies can enhance their effectiveness and provide long-lasting relief.
Benefits of dry needling
- Targeted pain relief: Dry needling targets specific trigger points in the muscles, aiming to release tension, reduce pain, and improve overall mobility. By stimulating these points, the treatment promotes the body's natural healing response, reducing pain and improving function.
- Improved range of motion: Chronic muscle tension and tightness can limit joint mobility. Dry needling helps relieve these muscular restrictions, allowing for a better range of motion in affected joints. This benefit is particularly valuable for individuals with conditions such as arthritis or those recovering from injuries.
- Muscle relaxation: Muscular knots and trigger points can cause discomfort and restrict blood flow to the affected area. Dry needling can help relax these tight muscles, increase blood circulation, and promote tissue healing. This relaxation effect can alleviate muscle spasms, reduce inflammation, and improve overall muscle function.
Getting started with dry needling
If you are considering dry needling as part of your pain management plan, follow these steps to get started:
- Consult a qualified professional: Seek out a licensed physical therapist or healthcare provider trained and experienced in dry needling. They will assess your condition, medical history, and overall suitability for the treatment.
- Discuss your goals and concerns: Have an open conversation with your therapist about your specific goals and expectations. This will ensure that you both clearly understand the treatment process and the desired outcomes.
- Begin the treatment: The number of needles used and the session duration will depend on your needs and the therapist's assessment. Remember to communicate any discomfort or sensations you experience during the treatment.
- Follow post-treatment guidelines: Your therapist may provide you with post-treatment guidelines to optimize the benefits and minimize any potential side effects. These may include gentle stretching, heat or ice application, and avoiding strenuous activities for the 12 hours after the session.
Dry needling is a valuable treatment option for those seeking relief from musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. By dispelling the myths surrounding this therapy, we can appreciate its distinct benefits and potential to improve overall physical well-being. Remember, always consult with a qualified healthcare professional to determine if dry needling is suitable for your specific condition. Many of our physical therapists at EW Motion Therapy are dry needling-certified and may suggest the treatment if they feel it benefits your physical therapy. If you are curious about what else dry needling can do for you, click the button below to download our answers to 20 frequently asked questions.
