Skip to content

Dry Needling in Hoppers Crossing

Dry needling is a therapy that can help relieve pain and muscle tightness. It may also improve mobility by restoring proper function to tight muscles. At Thrive Chiropractic and Wellness, we combine dry needling with chiropractic adjustments and other soft tissue therapies to help you achieve your own unique healthcare goals.

How Dry Needling Works

Acupuncture needles in backDry needling shares some similarities with acupuncture. However, while they use the same type of very fine needles, the approach and intent is different. Acupuncture is a form of Traditional Chinese Medicine that focuses on restoring the flow of energy along meridians in the body. Dry needling is a modern technique that works directly on muscles and trigger points.

The needle, which is as fine as a human hair, is placed to address your condition. Most patients don’t feel the needle as it goes into the skin—in some cases, patients feel a slight prick. The needle works by triggering a micro-spasm in the affected muscle, and you may feel this as pressure or a cramping or aching sensation.

The micro-spasm causes your body to react, directing increased blood flow to the area. This increased blood flow carries oxygen and other healing nutrients that facilitate repair and healing.

Patients often experience some immediate relief. Generally, complete relief takes several sessions. We see excellent results with dry needling for patients with chronic muscle issues, including rotator cuff injuries, tennis elbow, knee pain and sciatica.
New Patients

Frequently Asked Questions

Does It Hurt?

Most patients feel very little when the needle is inserted. However, if you are concerned or don’t like needles, let us know! We can demonstrate the process, or we can use a different technique. Our goal is to create a therapeutic environment that reduces your stress, and we won’t use any techniques that you aren’t comfortable with.

The muscle pain caused by the needles is about the same as you’d experience in a deep tissue massage to release trigger points (knots). You may feel a little sore for a day or so.

Is this technique the same as acupuncture?

Both processes use similar tools, inserting thin needles into certain parts of the body. However, acupuncture is based on ancient Chinese medicine and channel theory, targeting points on the body that connect with meridian lines that represent the body’s organs. Dry needling, on the other hand, is a modern technique that targets hypersensitive spots in palpably taut bands of muscle.

The goal of acupuncture is to balance and restore proper flow of energy throughout the body, while dry needling initiates a micro spasm so tight muscles can release.

What are the benefits?

This service provides relief for stiffness and some muscular pain. It may also improve flexibility and range of motion.

Is it good for neck pain?

If you have particularly tender muscles, fine needles may be more comfortable than manual manipulations, which put pressure on the neck. Many patients experience some immediate relief, but complete pain relief takes several sessions.

Schedule Today

Contact us today to learn more about dry needling or book an appointment.

divider

Dry Needling Hoppers Crossing VIC | (03) 8087 0555