Dry Needling

Dry needling is performed with solid acupuncture needles. Acupuncture needles cause limited tissue damage. The only similarity between acupuncture and dry needling is the actual needle. While dry needling is a very effective treatment approach in the treatment of myofascial pain, it does not stand alone and should always be integrated into a comprehensive treatment plan of persons with chronic and acute myofascial pain.

In daily clinical practice, the proper use of dry needling is dependent upon several factors, such as the clinician’s background, skill and experience, as well; as the patients individual attributes. Clinicians need to use their best judgement when applying dry needling. Dry needling may not always be the best choice of treatment.

Precise knowledge of anatomy, the risks, indications, contraindications, possible complications, and hygiene are required to practice dry needling safely.