What is Dry Needling

What exactly is dry needling?

• It is a pain relieving technique that physical therapists use involving.
• A thin mono-filament needle without any liquid in it (dry).
• Used to penetrate the skin and stimulate underlying trigger points or muscle “knots”.

How does this differ from acupuncture?

• Needles are identical.
• Dry needling is used to relieve pain from the muscle knot and allows progression in treatment.
• Acupuncture has the intent of moving chi or energy along traditional Chinese meridians.

What does it involve and how long does it take?

• The therapist 1^st finds the trigger points by palpating the area they are treating. They insert the needle into the knot and leave it there or may turn the needle after a few minutes for more effect. The muscle fibers in that area then relax, and circulation improves.
• Needles stay in for 5–30 mins.

What should you expect to feel?

• Nothing at all
• Slight sting.
• A very brief ache or “cramp”.
• May have muscle soreness afterward.

How does it work, what is the mechanism for relieving pain?

• It interferes with the pain signals to the brain.
• It releases endorphins (our bodies own pain relievers).

What kinds of problems can you use this for?

• Tennis elbow
• Headache/neck pain
• Low back pain
• Knee pain
• Chronic pain

We have center and branch locations in Gorham, South Portland, Portland, Newport, Brewer, Waterville and Auburn, Maine to better serve your needs.

Related: How Dry Needling Helps Relieve Pain