Dry needling is a type of treatment involving the use of long, thin needles to trigger the body’s natural healing response and reduce pain. Dry needling is known by many other names including intramuscular stimulation, intramuscular stimulation therapy, trigger point release, and myofascial release. One thing that these techniques all have in common is that they are used to treat muscle pain and chronic aches caused by tension in the muscles.
This article will introduce you to the benefits of dry needling as well as how it works, who can benefit from it, and where you can get this therapy.
What Is Dry Needling and How Does It Work?
Dry needling is a form of acupuncture that is often performed by physical therapists. It is done with a dry needle that is inserted into your muscles. When the needle is inserted, it triggers a reaction that ultimately helps to relieve pain and accelerate healing. There are several acupuncture points on the body that are commonly targeted for dry needling. The points are very specific. For example, one that is commonly targeted for lower back pain is located on the lower part of the back on either side of the spine.
What Is Dry Needling for?
Dry needling can be used to treat a wide range of conditions and injuries. It is commonly used for conditions like arthritis, headaches, and back pain. It can also be used to treat more rare conditions like plantar fasciitis and tennis elbow.
This technique is also commonly used to accelerate healing after surgery, an injury, treat muscle spasms, or alleviate general discomfort.
Benefits of Dry Needling
Dry needling can help to improve your range of motion, reduce your pain and discomfort, and facilitate your overall healing process. It also helps to reduce muscle tension and knots that may be contributing to your pain and discomfort. As a result, you can get back to your normal daily activities and sports activities more quickly.
Dry needling can also help you avoid long-term issues like muscle tears and joint degeneration due to overuse. Another benefit of dry needling is that it can reduce your overall stress levels by helping you to relax. This can be helpful if you are dealing with chronic pain or an injury that is causing significant discomfort.
Dry Needling Benefits in Sports
Dry needling is a very effective treatment option for sports injuries. The types of injuries that can be treated with dry needling include tennis elbow, plantar fasciitis, and hamstring strains. For example, tennis elbow is often caused by overuse so if you play a sport that involves repetitive motion that puts stress on your elbow, like racquetball or golf, you may be at risk for developing this condition.
After receiving dry needling therapy, you may see a faster healing process after your injury so that you can get back to your sport more quickly as well as avoid having to take time off from work.
Why Get Dry Needling Services from AmeriCare Physical Therapy
At AmeriCare Physical Therapy, we have been helping people recover from injuries and ailments for over 16 years. We offer a wide range of therapy options, from dry needling to aquatic therapy and more. If you are dealing with an injury or ailment, we can help you find a treatment option that is right for you. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
