Myofascial trigger points can cause movement and pain issues for patients. When these issues arise, patients may need dry needling treatment. The needles help to stimulate the muscles, causing them to twitch or contract, helping to relieve pain and improve the range of motion.
If you are interested in dry needling, contact an office in physical therapy near me. Also, educate yourself about the procedure and the risks and benefits involved.
Benefits of Dry Needle PT
Dry needling is a procedure that can help treat musculoskeletal pain. It is typically only one aspect of pain management treatment that uses massage, stretching, exercise, and other techniques.
During dry needling, a licensed therapist inserts a long, thin, sharp needle through a patient’s skin to treat myofascial trigger points. Trigger points refer to tender, knotted areas of connective tissue that become sensitive and painful to touch. The needles can reduce pain by increasing blood flow and decreasing tightness.
The advantages of dry needling include its safety and costs. The treatment is relatively inexpensive and carries low risks when a trained professional performs it.
Research shows the procedure can not only relieve trigger point tension but also improve range of motion and flexibility. Still, the technique is not suitable for everyone.
A physical therapist near me may not recommend dry needling for people with compromised immune systems, who are taking blood thinners, who are afraid of needles, who are recovering from surgery, or who are pregnant. Also, therapists are hesitant to use the technique on anyone who does not prove or cannot prove they understand it.
Potential Side Effects of Dry Needle PT
Dry needling is a relatively safe treatment with limited side effects. That said, it does carry some risks.
The most common issue associated with the procedure is soreness at the needling site during and after the treatment. Other minor side effects include:
- Bruising near insertion points
- Stiffness
- Fatigue
- Fainting
While rare, some patients can develop an infection, although infections typically occur when visiting inexperienced or unlicensed professionals. People with proper training know how to sterilize instruments and keep the injection site clean.
Severe side effects are rare. Some people may experience excessive bleeding near the insertion points. Also, if the procedure occurs near a thoracic area, it may cause a collapsed lung. Again, these issues and side effects are sporadic, and a trained professional takes precautions to limit their occurrences further.
Contact your healthcare provider if you experience any excess bleeding or shortness of breath. If the side effects are severe, call 911. Never take any chances with your health.
It’s also important to note that dry needling is not available in every state. The procedure is approved for use in 37 states.
Dry needling is a useful technique for relieving pain in the muscles and myofascial trigger points. The stimulation from the needles helps muscles relax, improving the range of motion. If you are interested in dry needling, contact an OKC physical therapy professional and schedule a consultation to discuss the technique.
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