Dry Needling

Dry needling is a physical therapy technique that uses thin needles to target tight muscles and trigger points, aiming to reduce pain and improve mobility.  St. Luke's Therapy Sevierville's Dry Needling program can be a valuable tool in your pain management toolbox.

What is Dry Needling?

Dry needling involves inserting thin needles into specific muscle knots or trigger points. These trigger points are tight bands of muscle that can cause pain, even in areas distant from the trigger point itself. By inserting the needle into the trigger point, dry needling may:

• Deactivate the trigger point: The needle may help to relax the tight muscle fibers and reduce pain signals sent to the brain.
• Improve blood flow: The process of inserting the needle may increase circulation to the area, promoting healing.
• Stimulate endorphin release: Dry needling may trigger the body's natural pain-relieving hormones.

Who Can Benefit from Dry Needling?

Dry needling can be helpful for various conditions that cause pain and stiffness, including:

• Muscle strains and sprains
• Chronic pain (e.g., neck pain, back pain, headaches)
• Myofascial pain syndrome (a condition characterized by widespread pain and tenderness in the muscles and fascia, the connective tissue surrounding muscles)
• Trigger point-related pain
• Limited mobility and flexibility

What to Expect During Dry Needling at St. Luke's Therapy Sevierville:

• Comprehensive Evaluation: Our therapists will assess your condition, pain level, and range of motion to determine if dry needling is appropriate for you.
• Treatment Session: The therapist will insert thin needles into specific trigger points. You may feel a twitch or ache when the needle reaches the trigger point, but the discomfort is usually tolerable. The needles may remain inserted for a few seconds to several minutes.
• Combination Therapy: Dry needling is often used in conjunction with other manual therapy techniques, therapeutic exercises, and modalities for a well-rounded treatment approach.

Benefits of Dry Needling:

• Reduced Pain: Dry needling can be an effective way to reduce pain and improve function.
• Improved Mobility and Flexibility: By relaxing tight muscles, dry needling can help improve your range of motion and flexibility.
• Faster Recovery: Dry needling may promote faster healing and recovery from injuries.
• Non-invasive Treatment: Dry needling is a non-invasive procedure that avoids the use of medications or injections.
• Fewer Side Effects: Dry needling is generally safe with minimal side effects, which may include temporary soreness or bruising at the insertion site.

Important Considerations:

• Dry needling is not a replacement for a comprehensive physical therapy program.
• While generally safe, dry needling may not be suitable for everyone. Let your therapist know if you have any bleeding disorders, skin infections, or allergies.

Experience Relief and Improved Movement

Don't let pain limit your activities. St. Luke's Therapy Sevierville's Dry Needling program can help you find relief, improve your mobility, and get back to doing the things you enjoy. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discuss how dry needling can benefit you.