INTRAMUSCULAR MANUAL THERAPY / “DRY NEEDLING”
FAQs
What is “dry needling” – Dry needling is an invasive procedure in which a solid
filament needle is inserted into the skin and muscle directly at a myofascial trigger point.
A myofascial triggerpoint consists of multiple contraction knots, which are related to the
production and maintenance of the pain cycle.
Is “dry needling” similar to acupuncture? – There are many similarities and
differences between dry needling and acupuncture. Dry needling is often called
biomedical acupuncture. Physical therapists at Total Body Rehabilitation Center are not
licensed acupuncturists and do not practice “traditional” acupuncture. In contrast to most
schools of acupuncture, dry needling is strictly based on Western medical principles and
research.
How does “dry needling” work? – The exact mechanisms of dry needling are not fully
understood. There are mechanical and biochemical processes that occur to reduce pain in
the musculoskeletal and nervous system. Pain causes nerves to become “sensitized” (i.e.
short circuit) in our extremities, spinal cord, and brain. If you have pain for an extended
period of time, more nerves become “sensitized.” Dry needling works to deactivate these
“sensitized” nerves. In addition, muscle spasms (or muscular triggerpoints) can be
released by inserting a needle. Sometimes individuals will experience a “local twitch
response” which helps to break the pain cycle. Similar to traditional acupuncture, “dry
needling” is believed to stimulate one’s own healing capabilities, which includes an antiinflammatory effect.
What type of problems can be treated with “dry needling”? – Dry needling can be
used for a variety of musculoskeletal problems. Muscles are thought to be the primary
problem contributing to the symptoms. The following conditions that can benefit from
dry needling include, but are not limited to, neck, back, and shoulder pain, arm pain (i.e.
tennis/golfer’s elbow and carpal tunnel syndrome), migraine and cervicogenic headaches,
buttock and leg pain (i.e. sciatica, hamstring strains, calf tightness/spasms), plantar
fascitis, and post-surgical pain. Even conditions like shingles can benefit from dry
needling therapy.
Is the procedure painful? – Most patients do not feel the insertion of the needle;
however, some people report a slight pinch when the needle is inserted and/or removed.
The local “twitch response” offered by a muscle elicits a very brief (less than a second)
cramping sensation. If the needling becomes too uncomfortable the needles are promptly
removed.
Are the needles sterile? – Yes, we only use sterile disposable needles.
What side effects can I expect after the treatment? – Most patients do not report any
adverse side effects after a treatment; however, some may describe being sore for 1-2
days after the procedure. The soreness is described as a muscle ache similar to that
experienced after a hard workout. Slight bruising can occur at the needles sites. Others
report fatigue or tiredness while is easily resolved with a nap.
What should I do if I experience pain after “dry needling”? – Our recommendations
vary depending on the amount of soreness you experience. Recommendations may
include applying hot or cold compresses to the area, taking a warm bath and/or shower,
gentle stretching, and activity modification.
How long does it take for the procedure to have some benefit? – Typically, it takes
several visits for a positive reaction to take place. The extent and duration of a person’s
pain will influence the response from dry needling. People with acute pain will respond
faster versus someone who has had long standing pain.
Why is my doctor not familiar with dry needling? – In the U.S., dry needling is slowly
gaining recognition in the medical community. The State of Ohio is one of several states
that allow its therapists to perform this technique. Feel free to inform your doctor about
this innovative treatment option. We would be interested in educating your physician
about dry needling. It is upon all of us to educate others about new ways to treat pain.
Once I am feeling better, how often do I need to come back to maintain my
progress? – The musculoskeletal system is under constant pressure from gravity, stress,
work, etc. A regular exercise program combined with good posture can prevent many
problems. If the pain comes back, “tune up” sessions are recommended. Remember, if
you have no pain, you don’t need dry needling. However, if pain does return, please
remember that treating acute pain is easier than treating chronic pain.
Does insurance cover this treatment? – Yes. Most insurance companies pay some, if
not all, of the cost of this treatment. Remember, this is not traditional acupuncture, so
will do not bill acupuncture codes to your insurance plan. This treatment falls under
therapeutic billing codes that insurance companies recognize.
For more information, please contact us at (419) 882-1841 or www.totalbody1.com
SIDE EFFECTS FROM “DRY NEEDLING”
1. Mild bleeding or bruising from the needle site – 10% probability of happening;
this may occur with individuals on blood thinning medications, with those with
blood vessel problems, and those who have blood vessels close to the skin.
2. Fainting – this phenomenon is rare, but is seen most often with healthy, athletic
young men, middle-aged women with blood pressures lower than 120/70, older or
weaker individuals with lower energy levels, and people who are hungry,
dehydrated, or who eat right before a treatment.
3. Temporary increase in pain – this can occur within 24-48 hours after a
treatment. This can be resolved with light massage, moist heat, and gentle
stretching of the area.
4. Fatigue and drowsiness
5. Skin reactions – small red spots on the skin are seen with some patients. This is
a histamine response caused by needle penetrating the skin. It is similar to an
allergic reaction, but usually subsides in a few minutes to a few hours.
6. Pneumothorax (i.e. collapsed lung) – this is a rare occurrence. This type of
problem may occur in the lower neck and mid back area. The lung lies very close
to the chest wall, and if a needle penetrates the chest cavity it could lead to this
condition. This condition is not life threatening, but does require immediate
medical attention. This problem is prevented by using appropriate needles and
techniques in these very sensitive areas. Our therapists have experience in
preventing this problem.