Dry needling (also referred to as IMS or Intramuscular Stimulation) is a technique that uses thin monofilament needles (exactly the same as acupuncture needles) to treat dysfunctional muscle tissue. Needles are inserted into trigger points (muscle “knots”) that often arise after injury, overuse, or poor movement patterns. Trigger points can cause pain and affect your muscle function, strength and range of motion. When dry needling is used it can decrease muscle tension, improve blood flow and decrease pain – people often report immediate relief!
Commonly treated conditions: Neck pain, whiplash, low back pain, sciatica, rotator cuff dysfunction, shoulder pain, headaches and TMJ dysfunction, Achilles tendon pain, Tennis/Golfer’s elbow, sports injuries.
FAQs:
- Does it hurt?
- Insertion of the needle itself is a minor pinch, but the muscle twitches that the needle produces are sometimes an odd and intense sensation. Typical muscle soreness (like you’ve just hit the gym) often occurs and can last 1-2 days post-treatment
- Do the needles stay in like acupuncture?
- With dry needling, the needling is an in & out technique. Needles are only in for a few seconds to produce the twitch and then pulled back out
- Am I a candidate for dry needling?
- There are a few contraindications to dry needling that your physiotherapist will rule out prior to carrying out this treatment.
- Does it cost extra?
- No – this is simply a treatment modality that your physiotherapist can use to assist in your recovery. No additional fee is applied to your physiotherapy treatment cost.