Our newest Chiropractor Dr. Kristin, is certified in Dry Needling. As a new treatment modality to the practice we know you may have a few questions as to how it works and if it may be beneficial to you!
If you have any questions feel free to ask if dry needling may be appropriate for you.
What is dry needling?
Dry needling is a technique used by Chiropractors and manual therapists to relieve pain and improve muscle function.
It involves inserting thin needles (1/4 the thickness of a regular needle) into the skin at specific points, known as trigger points, in the muscle. The needles are not injected with any substance, hence the name "dry needling." The goal is to stimulate the muscle to release tension and improve blood flow, which can reduce pain and improve range of motion.
What conditions can dry needling help with?
Dry needling is used to treat a variety of musculoskeletal conditions such as:
Knots, muscle tension or muscle spasms ie: shoulder tension, stiffness, torticollis/wry neck
Scar tissue ie: older injuries
Frozen shoulder/adhesive capsulitis
Muscle activation/stimulation ie: inactive glutes, supporting post surgical rehabilitation
Chronic pain such as lower back, neck and hip tension
Headaches
Disc injuries
Whiplash
TMJD, temporal mandibular joint dysfunction, clenching, grinding
Tendonitis ie: tennis/golfer’s elbow, de quervain’s, hamstrings
Shin splints
Overuse injuries, RSI
How is dry needling different to acupuncture?
Dry needling and acupuncture have different origins and philosophies. Acupuncture is based on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine and aims to balance the body's energy known as ‘qi’. Dry needling points are selected based on assessment aimed at improving muscle function, mobility & alleviating pain.
Dry needling may be is used for three may reasons:
Improve blood flow to & promote healing of a tissue
Reduce tension in muscles via stimulating a twitch response resulting in relaxation of tight muscles.
Improve neurogenic connection & muscle activation.
How does it work?
Insertion of the needle causes micro trauma to the tissue.
The body recognizes this as a new injury triggering a histamine response.
Improved oxygen rich blood flow nourishes cells promoting healing of the tissues ie: muscle, ligaments, tendons.
Damaged, scarred tissue is replaced with new healthy tissue thus improving function, activation & mobility.
Depending on your condition and injury history effects may be immediate or require a course of treatment.
There are some contexts in which dry needling may not be appropriate for your care.
Blood disorders, cardiac pacemaker or metal implants, cancer, uncontrolled high blood pressure or hypertension, infection & open wounds
Is dry needling safe during pregnancy?
Dry needling can be used in some contexts during pregnancy. Always let your practitioner know if you are pregnant prior to receiving dry needling to discuss if it is appropriate for you.
Some regions with cross over acupuncture points in Chinese medicine & acupuncture which may stimulate labour are contraindicated to dry needling during pregnancy.
Dry needling during pregnancy is great to help with glute muscle activation and relieving upper trap tension & headaches.
How does dry needling compliment your adjustments & current care?
Dry needling can be added to your current treatment and does not need to be a separate treatment. If needling one region it may only take a few minutes and compliment your adjustment. Dry needling is very effective when performed prior to spinal manipulation as is can help improve mobility & reduce tension on the joints helping to improve the effectiveness of an adjustment.
Dry needling can also be performed as it’s own therapy if required for a more intensive treatment with more involved structures such as shoulder injuries & rotator cuff pathologies
Curious? Book in online with Kristin and you can discuss if it’s an option for you!
Till next time,
Nomad xx
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Nomad Chiropractic in Mosman NSW is a Family Wellness practice. Chiropractors are Kristin Webb, Olly Kerr and Lucy Bartlett.
Online bookings at: www.nomadchiropractic.com.au
Or SMS us on 0491 064 117