Dry Needling Therapy in Mesa, AZ

Dry needling is a special technique, sometimes referred to as intramuscular stimulation, is a minimally invasive technique that uses small, solid filiform needles which are inserted into the muscle to treat a myofascial trigger point. The needle is inserted directly into the trigger point to stimulate the tissue and does not inject medication. It is intended to release trigger points, relieve muscle stiffness and increase blood flow. Dry needling is done by chiropractors and physical therapists who have specialized training and are certified by their professional stated associations.

Muscles work to maintain normal smooth movement in the joints of the body. When a muscle is injured or when chronic and repetitive stresses are placed on muscle, the muscle can become weak, shortened and painful, and develop trigger points which result in dysfunction in the joints.

Trigger points are sensitive areas of tight muscle fibers that can cause local pain or can also refer pain to different areas of the body. There are two types of trigger points. Active trigger points are painful to the touch and cause the body to compensate causing abnormal movement patterns which contribute to continued pain and dysfunction. Latent trigger points may not cause pain initially, but over time lead to chronic movement pattern dysfunction.

In dry needling treatments needles are strategically placed to alleviate trigger points. When a needle is placed in a trigger point, metabolic waste chemicals that have been built up inside the tissue are released. Once this block is removed, the body increases blood flow and oxygen circulation to the area, and the body’s natural healing capabilities are restored. In general, trigger points cause tightness in the muscles that block blood flow and oxygen; dry needling removes that block.

Dry needling is extremely effective at relieving pain, its benefits are due to the fact that we are able to reach areas that traditional massage, or an adjustment may not be able to. Although dry needling, like acupuncture, uses a thin filiform needle to penetrate the skin and stimulate trigger points, it isn’t acupuncture but instead is rooted in modern medical techniques and has many case studies supporting its effectiveness.

Dry needling is offered at The Center for Total Back Care. Pain is minimal, if not nonexistent when receiving this treatment. While dry needling is extremely helpful with relieving spine and extremity pain, the abnormal movement pattern must be corrected to prevent future injury, pain or dysfunction. Contact us today at (480) 633-8293, and allow us to create a custom, tailored treatment plan that will best address your specific health needs.