Myofascial Dry Needling
Myofascial Dry Needling is a highly effective treatment technique that involves inserting fine, sterile filiform needles directly into myofascial trigger points—commonly referred to as “knots.” These are hyperirritable spots in the muscle that can cause local or referred pain, restrict movement, and lead to chronic tension.
Unlike acupuncture, which is rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine, dry needling is based on Western anatomical and neurophysiological principles. It specifically targets muscle dysfunction and soft tissue restrictions to relieve pain and restore optimal movement.
Trigger points often develop as a protective response—known as muscle guarding—which occurs due to factors such as physical stress, postural imbalances, injury, or repetitive strain. These guarded areas become tense and sensitive, limiting flexibility and contributing to discomfort or chronic pain patterns.
By inserting needles into these dysfunctional areas, dry needling helps reset the muscle, restore blood flow, reduce chemical irritation, and activate the body’s natural healing mechanisms.
Dry Needling Commonly Helps To:
- Relax Muscle Spasms: Needling interrupts involuntary muscle contractions, easing tightness and restoring proper function.
- Release Trigger Points (Knots): Stimulates a local twitch response that helps deactivate and release built-up tension in problematic areas.
- Pain Relief: Promotes the release of natural pain-relieving chemicals (like endorphins), reduces nerve irritation, and relieves both local and referred pain.
- Reduce Inflammation: Enhances blood flow to the area, which helps flush out inflammatory substances and support tissue repair.
- Improve Local Immune/Healing Responses: Triggers a mild, controlled microtrauma that stimulates the body’s natural repair processes—helping restore tissue health and resilience.
Myofascial Dry Needling is often used alongside other manual therapies, such as remedial massage or stretching, to enhance outcomes and support long-term relief. It’s a fast-acting, evidence-based technique that offers a direct approach to resolving stubborn muscular issues and improving overall movement quality.
