Dry Needling

Dry needling is a form of manual therapy that involves inserting thin needles into the skin at specific points, called trigger points or myofascial points, in order to release muscle tension and pain. This technique is used to treat conditions such as muscle pain, tension headaches, and chronic pain. Dry needling is different from acupuncture, which is based on traditional Chinese medicine principles, and it is considered a Western medical treatment. The needles used in dry needling are typically solid, thin filiform needles, unlike acupuncture needles which can be thicker and hollow. The needles are inserted into the skin, and sometimes muscle tissue, with the goal of releasing myofascial trigger points which are considered as the source of pain. Practitioners of dry needling may be physical therapists, chiropractors, or other healthcare professionals with appropriate training.