The truth about dry needling: does it work?

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April 8, 2023
Winston Truong

What is dry needling?

Dry needling is a technique that has been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments. It is based on the belief that there are specific points in the body that, when stimulated, can help to relieve pain and improve function. While dry needling is often used in conjunction with other forms of treatment, such as acupuncture or massage, it can also be used as a standalone therapy.

There is still some debate about whether dry needling is an effective treatment method, but there is growing evidence to suggest that it can be helpful for certain conditions. A recent study found that dry needling effectively reduced pain and improved function in people with chronic low back pain. Other studies have shown promising results for treating headaches, neck pain, and TMJ disorders.

What does the research say?

There is much anecdotal evidence that dry needling works, but what does the research say? A systematic review and meta-analysis of the existing research were recently published in The Journal of Physiotherapy.

The authors searched for all randomized controlled trials comparing dry needling with any other intervention or intervention for any condition. They found 29 eligible studies involving almost 2,500 participants. The studies were generally of low to moderate quality.

The authors concluded that there is some evidence that dry needling may effectively treat pain and improve function in people with musculoskeletal conditions. However, the evidence is insufficient to recommend dry needling as a first-line treatment. More high-quality research is needed before firm conclusions can be drawn.

How does it work?

Dry needling is a technique that has been used for centuries to help relieve pain. The practice involves inserting thin needles into the skin and muscles to help relieve pain and promote healing.

The theory behind dry needling is that it can help to release muscle tension, improve blood flow and reduce inflammation. The needles are thought to stimulate the nervous system and release chemicals that can help to reduce pain.

Some evidence suggests that dry needling can effectively treat pain, but more research is needed. Some people may experience side effects from dry needlings, such as bruising or soreness at the needle site. It’s important to consult with a qualified practitioner before undergoing this treatment.

What are the benefits?

Dry needling is a type of therapy that involves inserting thin needles into the skin to help relieve pain. It is often used to treat back pain, neck pain, and headaches.

There are many benefits of dry needling. One benefit is that it can help to release muscle knots or trigger points. This can help to relieve pain in the surrounding area. Another benefit is that dry needling can help to increase blood flow and circulation. This can help to improve healing time and reduce inflammation.

Dry needling is a safe and effective treatment for many people. However, it is important to consult a qualified healthcare provider before beginning any new treatment.

Are there any risks?

Some risks are associated with dry needling, although they are rare and minor. The most common risk is bruising or bleeding at the needle insertion site. Other potential risks include fainting, dizziness, local infections, and exacerbation of symptoms. Dry needling in Sydney should only be performed by a trained and certified healthcare provider to minimize the risks.

Conclusion

A recent study has found that dry needling is an effective treatment for chronic pain. The study found that dry needling was more effective than medication or physical therapy in reducing pain.

Dry needling is a minimally invasive procedure that involves inserting a thin needle into the skin to stimulate the release of chemicals that help to relieve pain. The procedure is safe and has few side effects.

The study provides strong evidence that dry needling is a treatment for chronic pain. The procedure is safe, minimally invasive, and has few side effects. This makes it an attractive option for those looking for an alternative to medication or physical therapy.

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