Dry needling is an invasive procedure where a fine needle or acupuncture needles is inserted into the skin and muscle. It is aimed at hyper-irritable spots in skeletal muscles also known as myofascial trigger points which can be palpated in form of a nodules or taut bands in muscles. Trigger point dry needling can be carried out at superficial or deep tissue level. Physiotherapists need special training for using this technique.
Research supports that dry needling improves pain control, reduces muscle tension, normalizes biochemical and electrical dysfunction of motor endplates, and facilitates an accelerated return to active rehabilitation.
During the treatment, patient could feel a local twitch response and some temporary soreness post treatment.