Dry needling therapy in Edmonton

What is Dry Needling?

Dry needling is a therapeutic technique used by skilled physiotherapists to treat muscle pain and dysfunction. It involves inserting thin, sterile needles into specific trigger points (muscle knots) within the muscle tissue. The goal is to stimulate these points to reduce pain and improve muscle function. Unlike acupuncture, which focuses on the body’s energy flow, dry needling targets specific muscle areas to reduce pain and tension.

Conditions Dry Needling Can Treat

Dry needling is effective in treating a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including:

Dry needling therapy in Edmonton

  • Chronic muscle pain
  • Myofascial pain syndrome (muscle knots)
  • Tension headaches
  • Neck and back pain
  • Sports injuries
  • Sciatica
  • Shin splints
  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Frozen shoulder
  • Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders

Whether you are recovering from an injury or dealing with persistent muscle tension, dry needling can help alleviate pain and improve muscle function.

Benefits of Dry Needling

Dry needling offers several benefits for those dealing with muscle pain or dysfunction:

  • Pain Management: By targeting muscle trigger points, dry needling helps reduce pain and discomfort associated with chronic muscle tension.
  • Improved muscle function: The technique helps restore normal muscle movement, increasing flexibility and range of motion.
  • Reduced muscle tightness: By deactivating muscle knots, dry needling relieves tightness, making movement easier.
  • Improves recovery: It enhances blood flow and promotes recovery in the affected muscles, leading to recovery from injuries.
  • Non-invasive treatment: Unlike surgery or injections, dry needling is a minimally invasive, safe treatment option.

How Dry Needling Works

Dry needling works by targeting specific trigger points or tight bands of muscle that cause pain and dysfunction. The thin needles are inserted into these points, where they create a small “twitch” response in the muscle. This twitching stimulates the muscle to release tightness and encourages it to relax. In turn, this can reduce pain and improve muscle function over time.

The needle insertion also increases blood flow to the area, promoting recovery by bringing oxygen and nutrients to the muscle. As the body adapts to the treatment, muscles become less tight, and pain is reduced, allowing for improved movement.

What to Expect During Dry Needling Treatment

When you come in for dry needling, the process is straightforward and typically lasts between 20-30 minutes. Here’s what you can expect:

  1. Initial Consultation: Your physiotherapist will first assess your condition and identify the areas of muscle tightness or pain.
  2. Needle Insertion: The therapist will then insert thin needles into the targeted muscle areas. You may feel a slight pinch or a twitching sensation in the muscle, which is a normal part of the process.
  3. Treatment Time: The needles are typically left in place for a few minutes. Some patients may experience soreness or a dull ache during or after the treatment.
  4. Post-Treatment Care: After the treatment, your physiotherapist may guide you through stretches or exercises to further alleviate muscle tension and improve recovery.

Many patients feel comfort immediately after treatment, while others may notice improvement over the next few days. It’s common to experience mild soreness for 24-48 hours, similar to the feeling after a good workout.

Dry needling is a safe and effective treatment when performed by a registered professional. If you’re interested in how dry needling can help you recover from muscle pain or dysfunction, contact us at Millwoods Physical Therapy today to schedule a consultation.

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Our Locations

MILLWOODS LOCATION
4225 23 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6L 5Z8

Phone Number: (780) 440-9003
Fax : (780) 466-9058
E-mail: ptcentre7@gmail.com

CREEKWOOD LOCATION
8313 Chappelle Way SW
Edmonton AB T6W 4S1

Phone Number: (780) 710-4950
Fax : (780) 710-4951
E-mail: info@creekwoodphysio.com

GLENRIDDING LOCATION
2049 – 163St SW
Edmonton, AB T6W 4V5

Phone Number: (780) 250-4950
Fax : (780) 250-4951
E-mail: info@glenriddingphysio.com