Needling Therapy, or Dry Needling Therapy, is a technique used for treating sore/tight muscles, trigger points or knots, tendons and ligaments. This has been shown to be a very effective treatment technique to improve range of motion, reduce stiffness, increase blood flow and significantly reduce pain.
The physical therapists at CMPT use thin, solid filament needles to target and treat trigger points. Trigger points are responsible for causing pain, stiffness and limitations in range of motion. By inserting a thin needle into the trigger point, a twitch response is often seen. As the therapist continues to perform the technique, the patient will often notice a reduction in pain and a decrease in the twitch response indicating the trigger point has been effectively treated. Many of the therapists at CMPT perform this technique and have gone through extensive training in order to be certified in Dry Needling Therapy.
Conditions that would benefit from Needling Therapy?
- Neck pain
- Back pain
- Headaches or Migraines
- Sciatica
- Tennis Elbow
- Golfer’s Elbow
- Plantar fasciitis
- Rotator cuff pain
- Knee pain
- Achilles tendonitis
- Piriformis syndrome
- TMJ pain
Is Needling Therapy the same as Acupuncture?
Needling Therapy and acupuncture are similar in that both use the same needle. However, the philosophy behind the two differ. The main target of acupuncture is to address the body’s energy, or Chi, through different meridians while needling therapy is designed to address specific anatomy and function.
What should I expect during my first Needling Therapy session?
A certified needling therapist will answer all of your questions and concerns prior to the treatment. The therapist will then sterilize the area being treated and the needles prior to performing the technique. During the technique, a dull ache may be felt along with intermittent increases in discomfort when a trigger point is treated. Following the session, you may experience a dull ache, or fatigue-like feeling for 3-4 hours. Depending on the number of needles used and length of treatment, soreness can last up to 24 hours.
What is the cost of Needling Therapy at CMPT?
Needling therapy can be billed through your insurance during your physical therapy visit. If you are not a current patient, but would like to schedule a Needling Therapy appointment, please reach out to us at [email protected] or call us at 508-852-3700.