Dry needling is a form of therapy that involves the use of thin needles to stimulate trigger points in the muscles. These trigger points, also known as knots, are areas of muscle that have become tight and painful. These points can lead to dysfunction throughout the kinetic chain. Dry needling is used to release these trigger points and improve muscle function, which can help to reduce pain and improve movement.
One of the most common applications of dry needling is in the treatment of sports injuries. Many athletes experience muscle strains, sprains, and other injuries that can cause pain and limit their ability to perform. Dry needling can be used to target these injured muscles and help to reduce pain and inflammation, allowing the athlete to return to their sport more quickly.
Another area where dry needling can be useful is in the treatment of chronic pain. Chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia, myofascial pain syndrome, and chronic low back pain can be difficult to treat and often require a multi-disciplinary approach. Dry needling can be an effective tool for treating these conditions by targeting the underlying muscle pain and tightness that contributes to chronic pain.
Here at Maximum Performance, we focus on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of neuromuscular disorders. We use a variety of techniques, including manual adjustments, to correct misalignments in the spine and other joints. Dry needling and acupuncture work well with what we already do in the office.
For example, if a patient has a spinal restriction causing pain, we may manipulate the spine to correct the restriction. However, the patient may also have muscle tightness or trigger points contributing to the pain. We can also dry needling to release these trigger points and improve muscle function, which can help to reduce pain and improve movement.
Dry needling and chiropractic may also be used together to treat conditions such as chronic low back pain, neck pain, headaches, and sciatica. By addressing both the structural and muscular components of pain, a combination of dry needling and chiropractic can help to provide long-lasting relief and improve overall function.
If you or anyone else you know is interested in needling, let us know!