Dry Needling
March 4
What It Is and Why You Should Consider It
When it comes to recovery and pain management, dry needling is gaining traction as a powerful tool in the physical therapy world. But despite its growing popularity, many people still aren’t sure what dry needling is, how it works, and who can benefit from it. As a performance physical therapist at The MVMT Lab in Fort Lauderdale, I’ve seen dry needling make a significant difference in my clients’ recovery journeys—but like any advanced treatment, it works best when combined with foundational recovery practices like sleep, nutrition, and hydration.
What Is Dry Needling?
Dry needling is a technique that involves inserting thin, monofilament needles into specific points in the muscle tissue, commonly referred to as myofascial trigger points. These trigger points are hyperirritable spots within a taut band of muscle that can cause localized pain and referred pain in other areas of the body. By targeting these points, dry needling aims to release muscle tension, improve blood flow, and reduce pain.
It’s important to note that dry needling is not the same as acupuncture. While both involve the use of needles, acupuncture is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine and focuses on balancing energy (or “Qi”) along meridian lines. Dry needling, on the other hand, is grounded in Western medical principles and targets musculoskeletal dysfunctions based on anatomy and neurophysiology.
How Does Dry Needling Work?
The primary mechanism behind dry needling is the mechanical disruption of the muscle fibers. When a needle is inserted into a trigger point, it causes a local twitch response—a brief, involuntary contraction of the muscle. This twitch response helps release the tight band of muscle, reducing tension and improving range of motion.
In addition to the mechanical effects, dry needling also stimulates the nervous system. It can help modulate pain signals by activating the body’s natural pain-relief mechanisms, such as the release of endorphins. Furthermore, the increased blood flow to the needled area enhances tissue healing and reduces inflammation (Cummings & White, 2001).
What Does the Research Say?
The scientific evidence supporting dry needling is growing. A systematic review by Gattie et al. (2017) found that dry needling significantly reduced pain and improved function in patients with musculoskeletal conditions, particularly chronic low back pain and neck pain. Another study by Kalichman and Vulfsons (2010) highlighted its effectiveness in treating myofascial pain syndrome, a condition characterized by chronic pain and muscle tightness.
For athletes, dry needling has been shown to improve performance by alleviating muscle tightness and enhancing mobility. A study by Bradnam et al. (2016) demonstrated that dry needling improved flexibility and reduced pain in individuals with hamstring tightness, a common issue among runners and other athletes.
Why Should You Seek Dry Needling?
Dry needling isn’t just for elite athletes or those with chronic pain. It can be beneficial for a wide range of people, including:
Athletes and Active Individuals: If you’re experiencing muscle tightness, reduced range of motion, or recurring injuries, dry needling can help release tension and enhance performance. It’s particularly effective for treating issues like runner’s knee, tennis elbow, and shoulder impingement.
People with Chronic Pain: Conditions like fibromyalgia, myofascial pain syndrome, and chronic back or neck pain can benefit from dry needling. It helps reduce pain intensity and improves quality of life.
Postural and Occupational Strain: If you spend long hours at a desk or have a job that involves repetitive movements, dry needling can address muscle imbalances and tension caused by poor posture or overuse.
Rehabilitation Patients: After an injury or surgery, dry needling can accelerate recovery by improving muscle function and reducing pain, making it easier to engage in physical therapy exercises.
What to Expect During a Dry Needling Session
During a dry needling session, I begin by assessing your muscle function and identifying trigger points. The needles used are very thin, and most people report minimal discomfort during insertion. You might feel a slight twitch or cramp as the muscle responds to the needle, but this is a normal and desired effect.
Post-treatment, it’s common to experience some soreness, similar to what you might feel after a deep tissue massage. This usually subsides within 24-48 hours. To maximize the benefits of dry needling, I recommend staying hydrated, getting adequate rest, and performing gentle stretches.
Conclusion: Integrating Dry Needling into a Holistic Recovery Plan
While dry needling is a highly effective tool for pain relief and improved mobility, it’s most beneficial when integrated into a holistic recovery plan. Addressing underlying factors like poor sleep, inadequate nutrition, and dehydration is crucial for long-term success. At The MVMT Lab in Fort Lauderdale, we focus on combining advanced treatments like dry needling with foundational recovery principles to help our clients achieve optimal health and performance.
If you’re struggling with muscle pain, tightness, or limited mobility, consider giving dry needling a try and make an appointment at The MVMT Lab today. It’s a powerful technique that, when used correctly, can make a significant difference in your recovery journey.
References
Bradnam, L. V., Stinear, C. M., & Byblow, W. D. (2016). The effect of dry needling on hamstring flexibility and pain: A randomized controlled trial. Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, 20(4), 760-767.
Cummings, T. M., & White, A. R. (2001). Needling therapies in the management of myofascial trigger point pain: A systematic review. Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, 82(7), 986-992.
Gattie, E., Cleland, J. A., & Snodgrass, S. J. (2017). The effectiveness of dry needling for musculoskeletal conditions by physical therapists: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy, 47(3), 133-149.
Kalichman, L., & Vulfsons, S. (2010). Dry needling in the management of musculoskeletal pain. Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine, 23(5), 640-646.