DRY NEEDLING
Experience fast relief for your chronic musculoskeletal pain with dry needling
Dry needling is a non-invasive treatment method that involves the insertion of thin, sterile needles into various points of the body known as trigger points. Because the needles do not inject any medicines, they are called “dry” needles. Although dry needling is often used in conjunction with acupuncture, these are two separate treatment methods with completely different philosophies.
While the goal of acupuncture is to examine the body from a holistic perspective and correct underlying dysfunction to restore balance, dry needling focuses on the musculoskeletal system in particular. Dry needling aims to identify and release muscle tension in order to improve flexibility, range of motion, and, ultimately, physical performance. This makes it particularly useful for treating a variety of sports injuries.
Of course, athletes don’t have a monopoly on musculoskeletal disorders. Many individuals struggle with muscle pain. Whether you’re suffering from chronic ailments, like arthritis or tendonitis, or an acute injury, like a sprained ankle, dry needling can benefit you and help restore proper muscle function.
If you’re struggling with muscle knots, spasms, or sprains, dry needling can help you find relief fast. By increasing circulation, dry needling reduces inflammation and encourages a speedy recovery.
When a dry needle is inserted into a tight muscle, it breaks up the tense muscle fibers, creating localized micro-trauma. Although this increases inflammation temporarily, it also stimulates circulation. By improving the flow of blood, oxygen, and nutrients to the injured tissues, dry needling can drastically improve recovery time and provide you with immediate relief from musculoskeletal pain.
Dry needling also triggers the release of endorphins, feel-good neurotransmitters that latch onto the opioid receptors in the brain and make it easier for the body to handle pain. As the needle is inserted, it stimulates the muscle, causing it to twitch and then relax. By working with the body’s reflexes, dry needling encourages your muscles to heal themselves, without the use of prescription pain medications.
During your dry needling session, your doctor will perform a physical evaluation to assess your pain and pinpoint its origin. Understanding where the pain starts allows your doctor to formulate a successful treatment plan for you.
Dr. Jon Kukor is a Myopain Certified Myofascial Trigger Point Therapist (CMTPT) who has received the highest level of dry needling certification available, so you can be confident that you’ll receive state-of-the-art care as you begin your journey to recovery.
If you’ve never experienced dry needling before, it’s nothing to be afraid of. Dry needling is not painful. Patients often report moderate pressure when the needle is inserted, and slight discomfort as the needle releases built-up tension.
You may be advised to perform a few stretches after your treatment to further improve your range of motion. Many patients experience noticeable relief from their first dry needling session as it helps to reduce stress and encourages relaxation.
When it comes to treating musculoskeletal issues, dry needling is often just one piece of the puzzle. At Orlando Alternative Health, we will work with you to customize a treatment plan that helps you meet all of your health goals. Contact our office today to book your first appointment and witness the benefits that dry needling has in store for you.
