The physical therapy team at Banner Health is here to help you throughout your health care journey. Learn more about if dry needling therapy may be right for you.
Dry needling is a type of therapy in which thin needles are placed into trigger points located in muscles and tissues to help alleviate pain and stiffness.
While both dry needling and acupuncture use similar tools (needles), dry needling is based on Western medicine, while acupuncture is based on Eastern medicine. Acupuncture’s main purpose is to alter the body’s energy along traditional Chinese meridians and affect the nervous system. Dry needling focuses on alleviating pain by impacting trigger points to release tension or cramping.
Anyone who has pain or stiffness in their body could benefit from dry needling. Common issues that may be resolved with dry needling include:
During dry needling, your physical therapist will have you explain where you’re feeling the most pain or stiffness. Once you have identified the pain points, your practitioner will have you lie down and start placing the fine needles into trigger points within the muscle and tissue. If you are uncomfortable at any time, be sure to let your therapist know.
Dry needling risks are minimal. Dry needling is relatively safe, but a few common side effects after dry needling may include bruising or temporary soreness. If you experience other dry needling side effects or if these side effects worsen, contact your physical therapist for more information.
Once the needles are removed, you may feel sore after a treatment. After a dry needling session, it is recommended to drink water, stretch the area where the needles were used and use ice to soothe the soreness.
If you have more questions about dry needling, the experts at Banner Physical Therapy are here to answer your questions. Contact us today to learn more about the benefits of dry needling or what to expect.
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