Dry Needling for Pain Management

Physical therapy is one of safest ways to manage pain symptoms, whether chronic or acute, and prevent future injuries. From osteoarthritis to fibromyalgia, neuropathic pain and even chronic headaches, physical therapy is highly effective in helping patients become stronger, move better and live pain-free. Dry needling is one type of intramuscular manual therapy treatment, supported by research and performed by a physical therapist that has been specially trained in the technique.

Dry needling is the use of fine filament needles in physical therapy to relieve muscular pain and myofascial (muscular) disorders. Dry needling targets the actual trigger points, allowing for a reduction of muscle pain.

Dry needling accelerates healing by allowing increased circulation to the injured area, improving oxygen delivery and stimulating neural pathways that can block pain messages after they travel from your central nervous system to your muscles. When combined with the appropriate strengthening or stabilization exercises and biomechanical assessment, dry needling can help to alleviate both chronic and muscular disorders. Some examples of those disorders are:

• Acute and Chronic Tendonitis
• IT Band Syndrome
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Posterior Tibialis Dysfunction
• Athletic and Sports-related Overuse Injuries
• Post-surgical Pain
• Post-traumatic Injuries, Motor Vehicle Accidents and Work-related Injuries
• Chronic Pain Conditions
• Neck and Upper Back Pain
• Headaches and Whiplashes
• Lower Back Pain

Patients may experience slight, momentary discomfort with dry needling and results are best when combined with strength and rehabilitation exercises from physical therapy.

Physical therapy is proven to be an effective pain management program and the experts at Spooner Health can discuss the best option for your situation.

Talk to your doctor about dry needling or call 715-939-1745 to learn more.