What is dry needling?

What is dry needling?

Muscles are punctured by means of a special technique. In this way they become relaxed quickly and for a long time. Dry needling uses a 'dry' (dry) acupuncture needle – so no fluid is injected into the muscle. 

Dry needling is not the same as acupuncture. In acupuncture, several needles are often placed superficially in the body. They remain there for some time and influence the 'energy' in the body. Dry needling usually uses one needle to stimulate the muscle for a short time. 

Dry needling works on specific points in the muscles, the so-called 'trigger points' and is not an 'energy treatment'.

What is a trigger point?

A trigger point is a 'knot' in a muscle, which, in addition to local pressure pain, often also causes remote pain fysioThe therapist looks for these places because they can be the main cause of the complaints.

How can trigger points arise?

Trigger points can arise acutely, for example due to a wrong movement (tilting) or an accident/sports injury. Chronic causes can also give trigger points - for example, a long-term wrong posture and / or RSI / CANS. Prolonged absence of movement, for example with a cast, brace or a sling, and 'weak' ligaments in ankles and/or knees, for example, can also be a cause.

De fysioThe therapist will first analyze your complaints through a conversation and targeted examination. Then the muscles that may be causing the pain are examined in more detail. Specifically, trigger points are sought in those muscles. Exactly those places of the 'knot' will the fysiotreating therapist to relax the muscles.

Trigger points can arise acutely, for example due to a wrong movement (tilting) or an accident/sports injury. Chronic causes can also give trigger points - for example, a long-term wrong posture and / or RSI / CANS. Prolonged absence of movement, for example with a cast, brace or a sling, and 'weak' ligaments in ankles and/or knees, for example, can also be a cause.

De fysioThe therapist will first analyze your complaints through a conversation and targeted examination. Then the muscles that may be causing the pain are examined in more detail. Specifically, trigger points are sought in those muscles. Exactly those places of the 'knot' will the fysiotreating therapist to relax the muscles.

What does the treatment focus on?

Treatment is aimed at eliminating these trigger points. These points in the muscle(s) relax through targeted puncture with a needle. In case of long-term complaints, the therapist will often treat several muscles in your arm or leg, as well as the muscles along the spine.

Specific treatments – dry needling – 1

What does dry needling feel like?

In principle, you will not feel the insertion of the needle. When the correct trigger point is punctured, the muscle briefly contracts. This causes mild cramping. After that, the muscle usually relaxes immediately and you can move it more easily right away. The treated muscles often feel tired and heavy. However, that is of shorter duration.

What happens next?

You will receive exercises and specific advice to consolidate the improved situation.

Make an appointment?

You can reach us by phone or email via the telephone number or registration form below. Clearly state the complaint. Then we make an appointment with a specialist fysiotherapist.