Dry Needling

Dry needling is the insertion of sterile single use acupuncture needles directly into myofascial (muscular) trigger points.  Trigger points are tight, tender knots within the muscle which cause and contribute to pain within the body.  Research studies have shown that inserting such needles into trigger points causes favourable biochemical changes within the body, which help reduce pain. 

Although dry needling uses the same needles as acupuncture, it is not the same technique.  Dry needling is strictly based upon Western medicine principles of treating myofascial trigger points, which are different to traditional acupuncture points. The physiotherapists using dry needling techniques at Milltown Physiotherapy Clinic have all undergone specific training, and it is recognised within the scope of physiotherapy.

Dry needling can be used to treat a variety of musculoskeletal problems.  Examples of conditions which can be treated successfully with dry needling are:

• Back and neck pain, including postural problems and tension
• Pelvic pain (chronic and acute)
• Arm pain (shoulder impingements, tennis or golfer’s elbow)
• Headaches
• Buttock and leg pain (including sciatic pain)
• Hamstring strains
• Knee pain
• Calf tightness or cramps

These are only a few examples of conditions which can be treated with dry needling; there are many more.  The treatment of muscles with this technique has a huge effect on reducing pain mechanisms and breaking down pain cycles.