HOW DOES DRY NEEDLING THERAPY WORK FOR ONGOING PAIN AND STIFFNESS?

How Does Dry Needling Therapy Work for Ongoing Pain and Stiffness?

How Does Dry Needling Therapy Work for Ongoing Pain and Stiffness?

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Ongoing muscle pain and stiffness may interfere with everyday activities, making even simple movements uncomfortable. Dry Needling Therapy is one approach that may be used to address these concerns. This technique involves the use of thin, sterile needles inserted into specific points in the muscle tissue. When performed by trained physiotherapists, Dry Needling Edmonton services may support the management of muscle tightness and discomfort as part of a broader physiotherapy plan.

Understanding Dry Needling Therapy

Dry needling involves targeting what are known as myofascial trigger points tight knots in the muscle that may contribute to pain, restricted movement, or tension. The insertion of the needle into these areas may help stimulate the muscle, potentially increasing blood flow and prompting the tissue to relax. While this approach uses similar tools to acupuncture, it is based on musculoskeletal and anatomical principles.

How It May Address Muscle Pain

Persistent muscle discomfort may be linked to a range of causes such as overuse, poor posture, previous injuries, or stress. Dry needling therapy may be used to help reduce muscular tension, which may contribute to less localized or referred pain. In some cases, individuals report that their pain level decreases after one or more sessions, while others may need a longer treatment period based on their condition and goals.

Dry needling is often used in combination with other physiotherapy techniques like movement retraining, manual therapy, or therapeutic exercises.

Supporting Mobility and Reducing Stiffness

Muscle stiffness may limit movement, flexibility, and daily comfort. Dry needling therapy may support the release of tight bands within the muscle, possibly improving range of motion and reducing the feeling of tightness. This may be particularly helpful in areas such as the neck, shoulders, hips, or lower back, which commonly hold tension due to daily routines or prolonged sitting.

What to Expect During a Session?

A typical dry needling session involves a detailed assessment to determine where the needles will be placed. The physiotherapist gently inserts the needles into targeted muscles, aiming to stimulate a twitch response or create a local effect. Mild soreness or temporary discomfort after treatment may occur, and these sensations often resolve within a short period.

Each person responds differently, and the number of sessions may vary depending on the body’s response and the nature of the condition being addressed.

Could Dry Needling Fit Into Your Recovery Plan?

Dry needling therapy may be one approach used within a personalized physiotherapy plan. It is not suitable for everyone, and a full assessment by a trained physiotherapist is recommended to explore whether this technique may be appropriate for your needs.

Learn More About Dry Needling in Edmonton


If you are considering physiotherapy options for managing pain or stiffness, Turning Point Physiotherapy may help guide your care plan. Our team provides Dry Needling Edmonton services as part of comprehensive physiotherapy strategies. To connect with our team or schedule an appointment, Contact us.

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