Dry needling is a therapeutic technique that involves the insertion of thin, solid needles into specific points in muscles, tendons, or other soft tissues to relieve pain and improve musculoskeletal function. It is called “dry needling” to distinguish it from “wet needling,” which involves injecting substances such as corticosteroids or anesthetics into the same points.
Dry needling is available from our certified physical therapists at both of our Birmingham locations. Givve us a call at our Homewood location at (205) 224-4147 or our Crestwood location at (205) 201-4245 to find out more.
Common Uses For Dry Needling
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- Targeting Tightness in the Muscle: One aim of dry needling is to target and inhibit tight knots or bands in the muscles that can be a source of pain and dysfunction. The insertion of needles helps release tension and improve blood flow to these areas.
- Pain Relief: Dry needling may help alleviate pain by promoting the release of endorphins, which are the body’s natural painkillers. It can also disrupt the pain signals being sent to the brain and reduce muscle tension.
- Improved Range of Motion: By releasing tension in muscles and promoting relaxation, dry needling may contribute to improved flexibility and range of motion in joints.
- Muscle Function: Dry needling is thought to enhance muscle function by reducing muscle spasms and promoting proper muscle activation patterns.
- Nerve Sensitivity: Dry needling can be used to either desensitize a painful nerve or improve sensation in a dormant one.
FAQs About Dry Needling
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- What does a dry needling session include? During your dry needling session, your PT will assess your issue and discuss the best options for dry needling. You will be helped into the best position for the needling, and your PT will make sure you are comfortable. From there, your therapist will insert the needles as appropriate, and the needles will stay in place for approximately 10-15 minutes. Depending on your issue and comfort level, electrical stimulation can also be attached to the needles to enhance the benefits.
- Does dry needling hurt? A majority of times, there is minimal to no pain with dry needling. There may be a sensation of pressure as the needle is inserted into the body tissue. However, in some areas, there can be momentary pain upon insertion of the needle that typically subsides quickly.
- Does insurance cover dry needling? Unfortunately, most major insurance carriers do not cover dry needling services. For this reason, we offer affordable self-pay options for both dry needling as a stand alone service and as an adjunct service during your regular physical therapy. Our payment options are flexible, because we never want finances to get in the way of the care you need.
Hear from Ellen Pugh, PT, DPT, OCS, as she discusses more about the benefits of dry needling. Ellen is board certified in orthopedic physical therapy, and she has received dry needling training through the Dry Needling Institute of the American Academy of Manipulative Therapy. Read more about Ellen HERE.