For so many people, needles are something to dread. If the idea of an injection makes you anxious, then the concept of having several fine needles inserted into your skin can be terrifying. The silver lining is that dry needling isn’t nearly as scary as it might sound in theory! For many people, the experience is relatively easy and comfortable – though everyone’s experience is unique.
In this blog, we dive into what dry needling feels like. If you’re looking for a better idea of what this therapy is like, then continue reading our complete breakdown of the treatment.
For personalised advice, contact our team at Northern Districts Physiotherapy & Sports Clinic today.
What is Dry Needling?
Dry needling is one of many treatments and techniques offered through physiotherapy. This technique is performed by skilled professionals with the aim of managing neuromusculoskeletal conditions and injuries. The filiform needles used to pierce the skin are extremely thin and are placed strategically to target the fascia, muscles, connective tissue, and tendons that are causing pain.
Dry needling may be able to boost the body’s natural healing process and release built-up tension in sensitive muscles. Pain can be relieved when muscle hypertonicity decreases, and certain dry needling techniques may be able to recover full function and range of motion. When a trigger point adhesion is released, the body can work back to recovery.
The Difference Between Dry Needling and Acupuncture
Sometimes, dry needling and acupuncture can get a bit confusing for people. The idea of acupuncture can be a lot more familiar, but although these two practices use the same type of fine needles they differ significantly. Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese technique that emphasises how needle therapy can help a person’s energy and inner balance. Dry needling, however, is an evidence-based medical practice used by physiotherapists internationally.
A physio’s detailed understanding of the musculoskeletal system allows them to use needle therapy for treatment purposes. By identifying sensitive, tense, and damaged areas of the body, a physio can use dry needling to treat a wide range of conditions. Trigger point therapy is especially common in dry needling and can target hypersensitive or tender points in the body.
What a Session of Dry Needling Feels Like
Every patient is different. Individual dry needling experiences will depend on the nature of the injury or condition being treated. In most cases, patients will feel little more than a mild and dull ache during treatment. Many can’t even feel the thin needles penetrating their skin! There is a rapid ‘twitch’ response which can sometimes cause discomfort, but the pain is minimal and will only last for a few moments. Any muscle soreness caused by the treatment can be minimised through drinking plenty of water, stretching, applying heat packs, and keeping the body moving.
Related Link: Can Dry Needling Fix Shin Splints?
What to Expect After Dry Needling
Now, we don’t only want to advise you on what to expect during your dry needling appointment. The effects of this therapy may very well help to alleviate your symptoms or promote healing in damaged areas, but it can take some time to feel these positive effects. While the side effects may be intense in some cases, it is always manageable. Your physio will guide you through everything to expect – and you can always reach out if you are concerned by your post-dry needling symptoms.
During the first hour, you should expect your usual levels of pain. This is when the process will be at its most intense, but it shouldn’t be anything you haven’t been feeling previously from your injury. Pain will decrease after that initial hour, though you will likely still be sore for the remainder of the day. By the following day, your muscles will likely feel sore in the same way they do after exercising. This will dissipate over time, and soon you will be feeling much better.
In some cases, other symptoms such as bruising may occur. Reach out to your physiotherapist if you’re concerned about any side effects from your dry needling.
Book an Appointment at NDPE for Dry Needling Therapy in West Ryde
Needle therapy can be a point of fear for plenty of patients. Hopefully, this guide will have given you a better understanding of how dry needling works and what you can expect from the sessions. All in all, we want to reassure you that there is nothing to fear. Even if the needles can cause some levels of discomfort, the long-term benefits may be worth every minute.
Here at Northern Districts Physiotherapy & Sports Clinic, we take care to prioritise the comfort of our clients. Contact us today to book an appointment with an experienced physiotherapist who will walk you through everything to expect from dry needling and other treatment options.
