DRY NEEDLING

Dry needling involves the use of a thin, stainless steel needle inserted into the muscle at the site of a ‘‘myofascial trigger point’’ (also known as a pressure point or knot). The needles do not inject any fluids into the body hence the term ‘‘dry’’.

Dry needling is a modern technique based on western medicine principles.

The benefits of dry needling involve;

• Improving blood flow: Stimulation of healing by bringing nutrients and oxygen to the site of insertion which helps flush pain producing toxins out of the muscle as well.

• Release of neurochemicals (endorphins and serotonin) and natural anti-inflammatory mediators assisting with pain relief and relaxation.

• Relaxing tight muscles and reducing muscle spasms.

The thin, steel needle either will be left in the skin for a short period of time or a ‘‘in-and-out technique’’ may be used ‘‘pecking’’ the ‘‘muscular knot’’ and then removed.