What Is the Procedure of Dry Needling of Trigger Points?

Trigger points are areas of the body that are painful and may be felt as a band or a lump in the muscle. Trigger points are not associated with local acute trauma, infection, inflammation or degeneration. Typically, trigger points are related to myofascial pain syndrome.

Identification

Dry needling is an invasive procedure involving the injection of a solid filament needle into the skin and muscle of a trigger point.

Function

A sterile needle is used, and the patient typically doesn't feel pain when the needle is inserted. However, once the twitch response is obtained, the patient may feel an electrical type of sensation or a cramping feeling in the area. Following the dry needling therapy, a patient may be instructed to apply heat or ice to the area, stretch or limit certain activities.

Effects

For the therapy to be successful, patients usually return for repeated dry needling sessions over a period of time depending on their condition and response to the treatment. The patient will also be instructed on preventative care such as proper posture and exercises to strengthen muscles and stretches to relax them.

References

• KinetaCore: TDN Overview
• American Family Physician: Trigger Points
• Bethesda Physiocare: Dry Needling FAQ