Is dry needling the same as acupuncture?
Both acupuncture and dry needling can reduce pain, and they both involve inserting very thin needles into pressure points in the body, but in other ways these two treatment practices are very different. Acupuncture is an ancient practice based on traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), balancing the flow of qi energy throughout the body, causing the brain to release endorphins and allowing the body to heal. Acupunture needles are inserted into 14 energy-carrying channels, or ‘meridians’, around the body. Dry needling is a modern practice which has its origins in Western medicine and treats pain and mobility issues by stimulating the muscles by inserting needles at specific myofascial trigger points.
How many dry needling sessions will be required?
In acute pain situations, only one session may be necessary. However, with chronic pain it may take several sessions (typically two or three) before you notice a positive change. Your practitioner can advise you on how long your particular condition may take to resolve with dry needling.
Is dry needling safe?
Dry needling is considered very safe when carried out by a licensed practitioner. The risks of side-effects or damage from the procedure are extremely low. Women who are pregnant should consult their primary healthcare provider before having dry needling, as caution is advised with dry needling at some stages of pregnancy.
Is dry needling painful?
It depends on the individual. Usually, you can’t feel the needle piercing the skin, but as it penetrates the muscle, particularly if the muscle is damaged or shortened, the ‘twitch’ response can lead to an uncomfortable, cramping feeling in some people. Patients can learn to recognise, and even welcome, this sensation as it results in deactivating the trigger point. This in turn reduces pain and restores the normal function of the muscle. There can be some soreness after the treatment, often the following day, but this is not long-lasting.
How long does a dry needling session last?
A dry needling session is usually incorporated into other treatment modalities, such as osteopathy, so this may take between 45-60 minutes for the entire treatment, including needling.
Is dry needling used to treat children?
Whilst dry needling is safe for children, some practitioners do not recommend it for those below the age of 12, in case they find it painful (though the pain experienced is not like that from having an injection). Dry needling can help with pain associated with sports and hobbies, as well as treating muscles in children who have had a brain injury, stroke, or spinal injury that is causing muscles to be more tense than they need to be. All age-groups can benefit from dry needling.
