The Benefits of Trigger Point Dry Needling for Pain Relief: How it Can Help You

Two happy people walking on the road

The Benefits of Trigger Point Dry Needling for Pain Relief: How it Can Help You

If you suffer from chronic pain, you know how frustrating it can be to try and find relief. From stretching and exercise to medication and surgery, it can feel like you’ve tried everything. But have you heard of trigger point dry needling? This technique is growing in popularity and can be an effective way to relieve pain.

Living with chronic pain can be debilitating, and it can feel like you’ve tried everything to get some relief. But have you heard of trigger point dry needling? This technique is growing in popularity and can be an effective way to relieve pain. At Neuromuscular Strategies Physical Therapy in Boulder, Colorado, our experienced physical therapists can help you find relief through trigger point dry needling.

What is Trigger Point Dry Needling?

Trigger point dry needling is a technique that involves inserting thin needles into specific trigger points in the body to alleviate pain and tension. These trigger points are located in tight bands of muscle or tissue, and when stimulated, they can release tension and promote healing.

Trigger point dry needling, also known as intramuscular manual therapy, was first developed by Dr. Janet Travell, who treated President John F. Kennedy for chronic pain. Dr. Travell discovered that inserting needles into trigger points could alleviate pain and improve range of motion. Today, physical therapists use this technique to treat a variety of conditions, including chronic pain, tension headaches, back pain, and neck pain.

During a trigger point dry needling session, a physical therapist uses a thin, sterile needle to insert it into a trigger point, which is a tight band of muscle or tissue. The needle is then manipulated to stimulate the trigger point, causing a small twitch response in the muscle. This response is a sign that the trigger point has been stimulated and released. While patients may feel pressure or discomfort during the needle insertion, it should not be painful.

The goal of trigger point dry needling is to release tension in muscles and tissues, promote healing, and reduce pain. This technique has been shown to be effective in reducing pain and improving range of motion in patients with chronic pain, tension headaches, and other conditions. Due to its growing popularity, many physical therapists have sought out additional training and certification to become proficient in this technique.

How Does Trigger Point Dry Needling Work?

When a needle is inserted into a trigger point, it causes a twitch response, which is a sign that the muscle is being stimulated. This twitch response can help release tension and improve blood flow to the area, which can promote healing.

Think of the twitch response like a little high-five between the needle and your muscle. It’s a sign that the trigger point has been successfully stimulated, and that the healing process is underway. This response may feel strange at first, but it’s a good thing! It means that the needle has reached its target and is doing its job.

In addition to releasing tension and improving blood flow, trigger point dry needling can also help break up scar tissue and adhesions in the muscles. Scar tissue and adhesions can develop as a result of injury or overuse, and they can limit mobility and cause pain. By breaking up these adhesions, trigger point dry needling can improve range of motion and reduce pain.

Benefits of Trigger Point Dry Needling:

There are many benefits to trigger point dry needling, including:

  • Relieves pain and tension
  • Improves range of motion
  • Reduces inflammation

Another benefit of trigger point dry needling is that it can reduce inflammation in the muscles and tissues. Inflammation can cause pain and limit mobility, and reducing inflammation is a key component of the healing process. By promoting healing and reducing inflammation, trigger point dry needling can help patients find relief from chronic pain and other conditions.

In addition, trigger point dry needling can also help improve range of motion. When muscles and tissues are tight and tense, it can be difficult to move freely and comfortably. By releasing tension in the muscles and tissues, trigger point dry needling can improve flexibility and mobility. This can be particularly beneficial for athletes or individuals who want to maintain an active lifestyle.

Dry Needling benefits

Who Can Benefit from Trigger Point Dry Needling?

Anyone who suffers from chronic pain, muscle tension, or limited range of motion can benefit from trigger point dry needling. It can be particularly helpful for those who have tried other treatments without success.

Trigger point dry needling is commonly used to treat conditions such as tension headaches, migraines, back pain, neck pain, plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, and other forms of chronic pain. It can also be helpful for individuals who have been diagnosed with myofascial pain syndrome, fibromyalgia, or other similar conditions that cause muscle pain and discomfort.

Athletes and individuals who participate in sports can also benefit from trigger point dry needling. It can help to improve range of motion, flexibility, and overall athletic performance. Additionally, trigger point dry needling has been shown to reduce the risk of injury and speed up recovery time after an injury.

It’s important to note that trigger point dry needling is not suitable for everyone. Individuals who are pregnant, have a bleeding disorder, or have a pacemaker should not undergo this treatment. Additionally, those who are afraid of needles or have a low pain tolerance may not be good candidates for this technique. It’s always best to consult with a qualified and experienced physical therapist to determine if trigger point dry needling is the right treatment option for you. 

Does Trigger Point Dry Needling Hurt?

Most people do not experience pain during a trigger point dry needling session. Some people may feel a slight discomfort, but this is usually brief and is a sign that the muscle is being stimulated.

During a trigger point dry needling session, a physical therapist will insert thin, sterile needles into specific trigger points in the body. The needle is manipulated to stimulate the trigger point, which can cause a small twitch response in the muscle. Patients may experience a sensation of pressure or discomfort during the insertion of the needle, but it should not be painful.

Is Trigger Point Dry Needling Safe?

Trigger point dry needling is generally considered a safe technique when performed by a qualified and experienced physical therapist. The needles used are sterile and single-use, which minimizes the risk of infection.

While there is a small risk of side effects such as bruising, bleeding, or infection, these are rare and can be minimized with proper technique and precautions.

In a study published in the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy, researchers found that among 1,150 patients who received dry needling treatment, there were no serious adverse events reported. Another study published in the Journal of Manual and Manipulative Therapy found that dry needling was associated with a low risk of adverse events, and those that did occur were minor and short-lived.

It’s important to choose a qualified and experienced physical therapist who has been trained in the technique to minimize any risks associated with the procedure. As with any medical treatment, it’s also important to discuss any potential risks or concerns with your physical therapist before starting treatment.

Travel and happiness people

What to Expect During a Trigger Point Dry Needling Session:

During a trigger point dry needling session, your physical therapist will insert thin needles into specific trigger points in your body. You may feel a slight discomfort or twitch response during the session, but this is normal. The session usually lasts 30-60 minutes.

During a trigger point dry needling session, your physical therapist will first evaluate your condition and determine the appropriate trigger points to target. They will then use a thin, sterile needle to insert it into the trigger point. You may feel a slight discomfort or twitch response during the session, but this is normal and typically only lasts a few seconds.

The length of a trigger point dry needling session can vary depending on the number of trigger points being targeted and the severity of your condition. Sessions typically last between 30 and 60 minutes. After the session, you may experience some soreness or bruising at the needle insertion sites, but this should resolve quickly.

Trigger Point Dry Needling in Boulder, Colorado:

At Neuromuscular Strategies Physical Therapy in Boulder, Colorado, we specialize in trigger point dry needling. Our experienced and certified physical therapists can provide the best treatment for your specific needs. We are committed to helping our clients find relief from chronic pain through trigger point dry needling.

Fun Facts and Statistics:

  • Studies show that trigger point dry needling can significantly reduce pain in patients with chronic conditions.
  • In a survey of 150 people who received trigger point dry needling, 82% reported an improvement in their pain levels.

“Who knew that getting poked with tiny needles could actually make you feel better? It’s like magic, but better because it’s science.”

If you’re living with chronic pain, don’t give up hope. Consider trigger point dry needling as a way to find relief. With its many benefits and the experienced physical therapists at Neuromuscular Strategies Physical Therapy in Boulder, Colorado, you can trust that you’re in good hands. Schedule an appointment with us today and take the first step towards a pain-free life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Dry needling can help with pain and injury by releasing tension and trigger points in the muscles and tissues. By inserting thin needles into these areas, the physical therapist can stimulate the muscles to promote healing and improve range of motion. Dry needling can also reduce inflammation in the affected area, which can lead to pain relief and improved mobility. Additionally, dry needling can help prevent the need for more invasive treatments such as surgery and long-term medication use. Overall, dry needling can be a safe and effective way to address pain and injury.

  1. Wear comfortable clothing: It's important to wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing to your appointment. This will make it easier for your physical therapist to access the areas that need to be treated.

  2. Stay hydrated: Be sure to drink plenty of water before your appointment. Staying hydrated can help reduce discomfort during the session.

  3. Discuss your concerns: If you have any concerns or questions about the treatment, be sure to discuss them with your physical therapist before the session begins.

  4. Inform your therapist of any medical conditions: If you have any medical conditions or take any medications, inform your physical therapist before the session begins.

  5. Relax: Try to relax and stay calm during the session. This can help reduce any discomfort you may experience.

  6. Follow after-care instructions: Your physical therapist will provide you with after-care instructions, which may include rest, icing, and gentle stretches. Be sure to follow these instructions carefully to ensure the best possible outcome from your treatment.

During your first dry needling session, your physical therapist will start by assessing your medical history, your current condition, and your goals for treatment. They may also perform a physical exam to determine the best course of treatment.

Next, your physical therapist will explain the dry needling process and what you can expect during the session. They will then locate the trigger points in your body that are causing pain or tension and insert thin needles into those points. You may feel a slight discomfort or twitch response during the session, but this is normal.

The session usually lasts between 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the severity of your condition and the number of trigger points that need to be addressed. After the session, your physical therapist may recommend stretching or exercise to help promote healing and reduce pain. They may also recommend follow-up sessions as needed to achieve your treatment goals.

A typical physical therapy session lasts around 60 minutes, although the actual duration may vary depending on the treatment plan and the individual needs of the patient. The first session may be longer, as it involves a comprehensive evaluation and assessment of the patient's condition, medical history, and treatment goals. The physical therapist will work with the patient to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses their specific needs and helps them to achieve their goals. Subsequent sessions may involve a combination of manual therapy, exercises, modalities, and other techniques aimed at reducing pain, improving mobility, and restoring function.

Yes, dry needling can help with chronic pain. Trigger point dry needling targets trigger points or tight bands of muscle or tissue that may be contributing to pain or tension. By releasing tension and promoting healing in these areas, dry needling can help alleviate chronic pain. It is important to note that dry needling should always be performed by a licensed and trained professional.

Dry needling can potentially help some patients avoid surgery by addressing underlying muscle tension and trigger points that may be contributing to their pain or injury. By releasing tension in the muscles, dry needling can improve range of motion, reduce inflammation, and promote healing, which can help patients avoid the need for more invasive treatments like surgery. However, whether or not dry needling can help a patient avoid surgery ultimately depends on the individual case and the severity of their condition. It's important to talk to a qualified physical therapist to determine the best course of treatment for your specific needs.

LEARN MORE