Dry Needling- get the point?
What is the difference between acupuncture and dry needling? They both seem the same at face level: insertion of fine needles as a treatment method. Indeed, dry needling uses the same kind of needles that Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioner utilizes, but the similarity ends there.
Acupuncture versus Dry Needling
A lot of TCM practitioners will tell you that acupuncture is a form of treatment that involves insertion of fine acupuncture needles into specific points. Traditional Chinese Medicine believes that there are about four hundred acupressure points in the body, the points have specific impact on the flow of Qi. Hence, aside from medicine and massage, TCM also prescribes acupuncture for some patients for ailments such as pain and tension.
Same as acupuncture, dry needling uses single- use solid filament needles that range from 0.16mm to 0.46mm. Thinner needles causes less pain, but tend to be more flexible and may require tubes for insertion. The only difference between the two practice is the location of the puncture. Dry- needling focuses on trigger points of the muscle, creating a local twitch response.
What Can You Expect
Studies have surmised that dry needling stimulates release of chemicals or neurotransmitter that decreases pain, as well as promote muscle relaxation. While you might not feel the needle going in, the painful feeling you get is the result of your muscles twitching, although it may feel like an electric shock or cramp.
Some of you may feel sore after a session, but you may also find that your muscles are more relaxed. If you have been experiencing restrictions in movement, you might see some improvement. Hopefully, the positive results can encourage you to stay on the road of healing.
Pull the Pin on Pain
If you are sick of feeling tight heel muscles or pain, why not give dry needling a go? Our podiatrist is fully trained and have good feedback with using this as part of a treatment plan. More importantly, there is no short or long term side effect.