Dry Needling

A number of our practitioners at Inner Balance Health Clinics have undertaken additional training in a technique called Dry Needling. Dry Needling involves the use of an acupuncture-type needle that is inserted into the irritated portion of the muscle or 'Trigger Point'. The aim is to achieve a local twitch response to release muscle tension and pain. A trigger point is a tender spot in a tight band of muscle which causes pain when pressed or squeezed.

Dry Needling helps to reduce pain by releasing the shortened muscle. It is now well researched that the ‘twitch’ response in the muscle during dry needling is associated with the muscle relaxing and stopping the pull on adjacent areas.

What Does Dry Needling Help With?

Dry needling can help with many musculoskeletal complaints. Our trained therapists can determine whether dry needling is suitable for you. It is a technique that works well in conjunction with Osteopathy, Massage and our Acupuncturists.

Some reasons why people come to see us for Dry Needling (but are not limited to):

• Postural problems
• Chronic (long term) pain
• Repetitive strain injury
• Muscular sports injury
• Headaches

Does It Hurt?

The needles used are very thin, and you may or may not feel the needle enter your skin. If the target muscle is shortened and hypersensitive you will feel a cramping or twitch sensation. This is very short-lasting and patients soon learn to recognize this sensation as therapeutic as it is followed by a feeling of pain relief and muscle relaxation.

The most common side effect is temporary muscle soreness after the treatment, this can feel like a small bruise. This typically lasts for a day or two and your clinician will instruct you on how to minimize this. There are other less common side effects such as bruising. If you have any questions about side effects, please discuss this with your Osteopath, Massage Therapist or Acupuncturist.

How Is It Different To Acupuncture?

Dry needling only focuses on muscular trigger points and tender points that cause restriction and/or pain.

Acupuncture is a traditional form of therapy that focuses on restoring the energy balance (chi) to the body via unblocking restrictions in meridians throughout the body.