What is dry needling?
Dry needling involves the use of small sterile needles which are inserted into the skin at myofascial trigger points. This technique has been used for centuries to relieve tension in overworked muscles. This therapy increases blood flow to trigger points which reduced muscle contraction.
Myofascial trigger points (commonly known as knots) are found in muscles and fascia. Needles are inserted into these trigger points to release contractions, relieve tension, and reduce pain.
What is a myofascial trigger point?
Trigger points are “knots” that can be found in soft tissue that cause deep aching pain. These firm nodules are commonly found within muscles and produce direct/referred pain. Myofascial trigger points are formed as part of the body’s natural protective response.
Trigger points can be caused by:
What are the benefits of dry needling?
What conditions can benefit from dry needling?
Does it hurt?
During a dry needling consultation, you may experience slight stings when the needle is inserted into the leg/foot. This discomfort however should only last a few seconds before settling down. The needles we use are very thin to minimise discomfort. You may also feel a muscle twitch when the needle is inserted into a myofascial trigger point.
Who is shockwave Therapy not suitable for ?
How long does the treatment last?
Each treatment will take approximately 10 minutes, delivering 6000 shocks.
Some patients or conditions require more shocks and duration, depending on severity and how long the condition or injury has existed.
Normally four to seven treatments are necessary on a weekly basis. To get the best results we like to avoid gaps in the treatment program.
Does it hurt?
The initial stage of treatment may cause some deep pain however this indicates a deep targeting of the problem area. However, if you cannot tolerate it, adjustments on the machine can be made to decrease the pressure you feel.
During the treatment you may start to experience numbness or heaviness at the treatment area. Towards the end of your treatment session it will become less painful.
After your treatment you may feel some soreness which may intensify on the night of treatment. Use of anti-inflammatories is not recommended rather a paracetamol should pain relief be required.
You may experience some bruising at the treatment site.
We request you rest from aggravating activities for 2 - 3 days after treatment.
Although the short-term effects alone are exceptional, the long-term benefits of this treatment may take up to 3-4 months. If after this time there has not been any marked improvement, you should see your doctor for further treatment options.
* The human body is a complex structure and like many things in medicine we can provide no guarantee of the effectiveness of treatment. We can only keep up to date with the latest quality scientific research and make this available to you to make your decision.
