1. Definition
Dry needling is a therapeutic technique in which a thin filiform needle is inserted into muscle trigger points to relieve pain and improve function.
2. Aim / Purpose
- Reduce muscle pain and tightness
- Release myofascial trigger points
- Improve range of motion (ROM)
- Restore normal muscle function
3. Indications
- Myofascial pain syndrome
- Muscle spasm
- Neck and back pain
- Sports injuries
- Tendinitis
- Fibromyalgia
4. Contraindications
- Bleeding disorders
- Infection at site
- Pregnancy, some areas
- Patients on anticoagulants
5. Types of Needling
1. Superficial Needling
Needle inserted into skin or subcutaneous layer.
Less painful.
2. Deep Needling
Needle inserted into deep muscle tissue.
More effective for chronic pain.
6. Technique / Procedure
- Identify trigger point
- Clean area using aseptic technique
- Insert sterile needle
- Manipulate needle by pistoning or twisting
- Remove needle safely
7. Physiological Effects
- Improves local blood circulation
- Reduces irritation around tight tissue
- Releases endorphins for pain relief
- Breaks the pain-spasm cycle
8. Advantages
- Quick pain relief
- Minimally invasive
- Improves mobility
9. Disadvantages / Complications
- Pain during insertion
- Bleeding or bruising
- Infection, rare
- Dizziness
10. Precautions
- Use sterile needles
- Proper anatomical knowledge required
- Avoid vital structures
- Take patient consent
11. Trigger Point and Needling
Needling targets hyperirritable spots in skeletal muscle associated with a hypersensitive palpable nodule, commonly known as a taut band.
- Referred pain: Pain felt away from the stimulus site.
- Local twitch response: Involuntary spinal cord reflex contraction.
Needle to skin, subcutaneous layer and muscle. Target: taut band and trigger point.