Dry needling (intramuscular stimulation, or IMS) is a specialized technique used by physiotherapists with post graduate training in the use of acupuncture needles to release taut bands of muscles in your body.
My inserting the needle into a tight band of muscle and eliciting a “twitch response” or spasm, this helps to decrease muscle pain, promote tissue healing, increase muscle length and movement and restore function.
Unlike acupuncture, which is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine and focuses on balancing energy flow in the body, Dry Needling is a Western medical practice that targets muscle trigger points, also known as myofascial trigger points.
Dry needling can manage a range of musculoskeletal complaints, such as muscle strains, spasms, tight muscles, persistent pain, nerve pain and headaches. Dry needling is often combined with other treatments, such as manual therapy, education and exercise to help create the best results and restore function.
It’s always best to consult with your physiotherapist to see if dry needling is appropriate for you.
