Many patients are familiar with acupuncture, but less is known about dry needling canton, a technique that physical therapists use to reduce muscle tension and offer pain relief. It is often used as a complement to other physical therapy tools and can support a patient’s path toward a faster recovery.
In this highly skilled treatment, thin, sterile, single-use needles are inserted into the skin at specific locations that are considered trigger points to your pain. When the needle hits the trigger point, it causes a local twitch response. This is very important, as it confirms that the trigger point is the cause of your pain and dysfunction. It also allows the trigger point to be deactivated.
This process can improve pain control, decrease muscle tension and increase a patient’s range of motion and function. It also normalizes the dysfunctions of motor end plates, which are sites in muscles where nerve impulses are transmitted to control the muscles.
Our therapists are trained and certified in this highly effective treatment. We utilize dry needling along with manual techniques, exercises and education to help patients reach their rehabilitation goals. Typically, dry needling is covered by insurance and a physical therapist can check with your insurer to find out what coverage you may have. We can also communicate with your primary care physician about your needling treatment and any progress or challenges you may be having. For more information about this treatment, please call our office.