The Point Functional Dry Needling
What is functional dry needling?
When a provider uses Functional Dry Needling, they perform an assessment to identify an area of dysfunction and then locate a trigger point within the muscle. The provider then precisely inserts a VERY thin needle into the trigger point. The point of this is to create a twitch response which feels like a quick spasm. Stimulating a trigger point with dry needling has been shown to increase blood flow to the area which promotes healing (which, in part, brings in the good stuff and takes out the bad stuff), decreases pain sensitivity in the area, “resets” the firing pattern of the targeted tissue and can even decrease inflammatory markers. Crazy stuff!
What to expect during a dry needling treatment:
Your provider should ALWAYS clean the area before starting the dry needling process, wear single-use, sterile gloves and sanitize after putting them on. The needle itself is encased in a tiny plastic tube which is placed directly over the trigger point and then a quick tap is applied to the top of the tube. The provider then slowly and gently guides the needle into the tissue. The feeling should be that of a dull ache. Nothing should be sharp or “pinchy.” Once the needle is where the provider would like it, there are two options. Pistoning the needle and/or using a STIM unit. When pistoning is used, the provider is simply moving the needle-in-and-out to elicit more muscle twitches. STIM is prefered by many due to the research on decreased muscle soreness following treatment. It’s also a more tolerable technique for many as it’s a constant stimulus that you can anticipate. The STIM can be a diagnostic tool as well since physician can determine which muscle is most affected based off of the contraction. The number of needles used depends on many factors, but the most important factor is what YOU decide you are comfortable with. The needle can remain in the tissue up to 20 minutes depending on the patient and/or doctor preference.
Does dry needling hurt?
The palpation (when the provider is poking around for the trigger point) is typically more uncomfortable than the act of needling itself. When the needle is in the trigger point, the twitch response is commonly described as a deep, dull ache. Post dry needling, the area is typically a bit sore to the touch, but movement and heat to the area is incredibly helpful. The soreness is similar to what you would feel after a workout session.
What are the risks of dry needling?
The most common concern following dry needling treatment is muscle soreness. This is incredibly common and again, should be similar to workout soreness and can even be sensitive to the touch. This should resolve within 12-48 hours. Infection is always a concern when passing through the skin barrier. This risk is significantly reduced when proper sanitation protocol is followed such as single-use needles, sanitized gloves, etc. Bruising in the area that was treated is also not uncommon. Though exceedingly rare, the most serious concern is a pneumothorax (or collapsed lung) which is why extra caution is taken within the lung field. If you experience any shortness of breath contact your provider immediately for a chest x-ray and additional care.
When is dry needling contraindicated?
If cognitive impairment or age prevents the patient from understanding the procedure then it should NOT be performed. Dry needling is typically not recommended for those under the age of 14, but this can vary.
Compromised immune systems
Recent surgery (within the past 6-12 weeks) or infection
Uncontrolled bleeding disorders
Some areas (such as the abdomen as you can imagine) are avoided during pregnancy
How is dry needling different from acupuncture?
Dry Needling and Acupuncture are similar in the sense that they use the same needles, but that is about the extent of it! Dry Needling will target the muscle to cause a change in range of motion and functional movement. Acupuncture is more of a superficial target into the skin and focuses on changing the chi or flow of energy. Both are great for generating changes, there are just different focuses behind the intent.
What does dry needling help?
Great news! If you have muscle or joint pain, dry needling can likely help. Common concerns that Dr. Dani uses dry needling for include, but are definitely not limited to:
Neck | Mid back | Low back pain
Hip pain
Knee pain
Shoulder pain
Dry Needling can be used during pregnancy and in the postpartum periods as well. Common uses are for:
Dry needling can be miraculous on it’s own, but you add in other modalities such as adjusting, muscle work and mobility/stability exercises and that’s where the magic really happens!
Hi there!
My name is Dr. Dani and I’m an In-Home Chiropractor to busy individuals and families within the Denver Metro area. I love working with the pregnancy, postpartum and pediatric populations and strive for quality care through extended appointment times, follow-up recommendations and education so that you can feel both empowered and cared for!
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Check out more information about Dr. Dani and what Balance Chiro and Rehab offers to those in the Denver Metro area (and surrounding areas) HERE.
