Acupuncture & Dry Needling

Acupuncture and dry needling

Acupuncture

Acupuncture forms part of Traditional Chinese Medicine. (TCM),

It works by affecting and balancing the flow of “chi” or “Ki” energy throughout the body. The energy flows through meridians and can be manipulated through specific points along these meridians. By inserting needles into specific points the energy flow can be balanced. Thus, health is maintained.

Dry Needling.

Dry needling is commonly used to treat musculoskeletal problems. It can also be used to enhance treatment with manual therapy. Needles are placed in certain areas of the body to release tension and stress.

Manual therapy treatment may, therefore, be used in conjunction. As a result, many patients see a physical therapist who has been trained in dry-needling methods.

A comparison of Acupuncture and dry needling.

Acupuncture and dry needling treat many of the same conditions. It is the theory behind each that makes the difference. Essentially, acupuncture treats the flow of energy, and dry needling releases muscle tension.

Trigger points & non-trigger points

Needles are inserted in specific “trigger points” of your body. These are usually knotted muscles or tight soft tissue So, this helps release the knot and relieve any muscle pain or spasms. as these areas are released, more movement is achieved. The Needles will remain in your skin for a short period of time. Treatment often lasts between 10 and 30 minutes.

Dry needling is also sometimes called “intramuscular stimulation”.

Some techniques treat a part of the central nervous system. This is called non-trigger point treatment. Needles may be used in the area of pain, and in other related but distant, areas. Techniques rely on the idea that pain is the result of a greater nerve or muscular issue, not a focused one only in the main area of pain.

Areas can include ligaments around joints, such as the elbow. This type of treatment is therefore very effective when treating mechanical pain. Some examples are low back pain, headaches, and most joint pain.

What are the benefits of dry needling?

Dry needling may provide relief for some muscular pain and stiffness. In addition, easing the trigger points may improve flexibility and increase the range of motion. Therefore, that is why this method is often used to treat sports injuries, muscle pain, and even fibromyalgic pain.

Are there side effects or risks to dry needling?

Mild side effects are common with dry needling, but serious side effects remain rather rare. The most common occur around the injection site include:

  • slight bruising
  • spot bleeding
  • temporary soreness/tenderness

Finally, sterile single-use needles are therefore used. This prevents any risk of contracting blood-borne illnesses diseases or infections.

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