What is Dry Needling?

Dry needling is an effective and efficient technique for the treatment of muscular pain and myofascial dysfunction. In simple terms, the treatment involves needling of a muscle’s trigger points without injecting any substance, hence the term “dry” needling.

The approach is based on Western anatomical and neurophysiological principles, where a needle is directed towards an irritable and thick band of muscle, known as a “trigger point”. The aim of the method is to produce a hypercontraction (twitch response) in the muscle, followed by muscle relaxation and analgesia.

Dry needling is often confused with acupuncture, a traditional Chinese medicine technique. However, dry needling uses modern neutroanatomy science to treat musculoskeletal and nervous systems, wheres acupuncture uses traditional meridian lines ( based on 2000 year old philosophy).

What does it feel like? Does the treatment hurt?

The needles uses are called filament needles. They are extremely fine and cause minimal discomfort. For each person dry needling feels different. You may experience:

• A slight prick when the needle penetrates skin, almost like a mosquito bite

• Hypercontraction - one or more twitches when the trigger point is stimulated, similar to a rapid cramp that will only last a fraction of second

• A dull ache may be felt after treatment, particularly your first session

• Tenderness 24 hours after treatment (similar to a massage). Stretching and hot/cold application will decrease post treatment sensations.

What are the benefits?

• Pain Reduction

• Improvement in range of motion

• Reduced recovery time

Treatments

Dry needling should not be used in isolation as a treatment, but rather in conjunction with your overall management plan, in order to realise its full benefits.

At ProPodiatry we are able to dry needle and provide relief for:

• Heel pain

• Achilles Tendinitis

• Tight and/or sore calves

• Toes (clawed or hammer toes)

• The knee

Our Podiatrists have completed the extra study to be qualified to perform Dry Needling as part of our Podiatry Services.