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Dry Needling for Muscle Pain: Effective Relief for Chronic and Acute Conditions

Aug 21

2 min read

Pongsathorn Sitthisen M.D

1

154

Dry needling, Acupunture

Dry Needling: An Alternative Medical Therapy

Acupuncture has become a popular alternative medical therapy in recent years, with many people continuing to use it due to its safety and effectiveness in reducing pain and inflammation in various muscles.


What is Dry Needling or Western Acupuncture? 

Dry Needling is a treatment that targets muscle knots and areas of muscle spasm that restrict blood flow, leading to chronic muscle pain, also known as Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS). Dry needling involves inserting needles into the affected muscle, which helps relax the knotted muscle fibers, allowing blood flow to return to the area, and ultimately relieving the pain. The needles used are small, thin, and made of stainless steel, ensuring safety and effectiveness without injecting any medication, which is why the technique is called "dry needling"


Before undergoing dry needling treatment, it’s essential to consult with a specialized surgeon to diagnose the cause of the pain accurately and achieve the best treatment outcomes.






Who is Dry Needling Suitable For? 

Dry needling is ideal for individuals with chronic muscle inflammation or muscle imbalance caused by prolonged use, such as neck, shoulder, hip, back, or office syndrome-related pain.


Conditions That Dry Needling Can Treat

Dry needling can help alleviate various conditions, including:

  • General body aches and pains, such as back, neck, and shoulder pain, and pain from office syndrome

  • Acute and chronic back pain

  • Muscle spasms and trigger points

  • Chronic joint pain lasting over six months


Advantages of Dry Needling Treatment

With the use of modern stainless steel needles that are thinner and sharper, dry needling today is nearly painless. It effectively treats both chronic and acute muscle pain, stimulates neurotransmitter release, and balances the body's systems, including boosting immune function and improving blood circulation in the affected muscles.


At Menness, our team of specialized physicians evaluates each patient's condition, determining the precise areas for needle insertion. Follow-up sessions are scheduled weekly to ensure continuous treatment until the pain subsides, and the muscles are fully relaxed.


Side Effects of Dry Needling

Some patients may experience soreness or tenderness in the treated area 1-4 days after the session. This can be managed with anti-inflammatory medication or hot compresses.


Who Should Avoid Dry Needling?

  • Individuals with a severe fear of needles

  • Those with abnormal blood clotting

  • People who bruise or bleed easily

  • Patients undergoing surgery

  • Individuals with underlying conditions like heart disease


Dry needling is a targeted technique that directly stimulates muscle knots and spasms. It reaches deeper muscle layers more effectively than massage, making it suitable for treating various muscle conditions. However, treatment should be supervised by a specialized physician in a certified, safe, and effective medical facility.


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