Dry needling is a specialized technique utilized by acupuncturists, physical therapists, and other skilled healthcare practitioners to address musculoskeletal pain and movement issues. Typically integrated into comprehensive pain management plans that may involve exercise, stretching, massage, and other methods, dry needling focuses on treating myofascial trigger points. These trigger points, characterized by knotted and tender areas within muscles, are highly sensitive and can contribute to both localized and referred pain.
In the term “myofascial,” “myo” pertains to “muscle,” and fascia refers to the thin, white connective tissue enveloping muscles. During a dry needling session, a provider inserts thin, sharp needles through the skin to target underlying trigger points. Unlike trigger point injections, which involve the introduction of medication and are administered by physicians, dry needling employs solid needles without any medication, earning its “dry” designation.
How Does Dry Needling Work?
Muscles that are overused can enter an energy crisis, leading to inadequate blood supply and depriving muscle fibers of essential oxygen and nutrients for returning to their normal resting state. Consequently, the surrounding tissue near trigger points becomes more acidic, sensitizing nerves and causing soreness and pain.
Dry needling intervenes by stimulating trigger points, encouraging a restoration of normal blood supply to flush out the area and release tension. The needle’s prick also activates nerve fibers, prompting the brain to release endorphins—your body’s natural pain medication.
During a dry needling session, the therapist locates a trigger point and inserts a needle directly into it through the skin. Needle manipulation may be applied to induce a local twitch response—a rapid muscle spasm, indicating a positive reaction. Some individuals experience immediate improvement in pain and mobility following a dry needling session, while others may require multiple sessions for optimal results. Also referred to as trigger point dry needling and intramuscular stimulation, this technique offers a non-pharmacological approach to pain management and improved musculoskeletal function.
