INTRAMUSCULAR MANUAL THERAPY / “DRY NEEDLING” Faqs

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 anti- inflammatory 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.