What Is Dry Needling, and Is It Right for You?
Dry needling is a technique similar to acupuncture. It can relieve pain, inflammation, stiffness, and other symptoms associated with chronic injury or illness. At Marsh Chiropractic and Wellness Center, Dr. Scott Marsh has extensive experience using dry needling in Maryville, TN, to stimulate healing, ease pain, and improve muscle and joint function. Here is a look at what dry needling is, what to expect during your appointment, and the benefits of dry needling.
What Is Dry Needling?
Dry needling is a safe, minimally invasive treatment option that addresses pain and dysfunction associated with myofascial trigger points. This technique can treat muscle pain, movement problems, stiffness, loss of range of motion, and mobility issues. Dr. Marsh will integrate dry needling into your chiropractic care plan, combining it with other treatments like chiropractic adjustments and physical rehabilitation.
How Does Dry Needling Work?
During a dry needling treatment, Dr. Marsh will locate trigger points, or knotted, tender areas in your muscles. These trigger points are responsible for pain, inflammation, stiffness, and mobility issues. Dr. Marsh will insert thin, sterile needles into these trigger points to stimulate your nerves and muscles. This draws blood back to the injured area and allows nutrients and oxygen to flow freely, jump starting the healing process. As your body heals, your trigger points will release, which can alleviate muscle pain and stiffness and restore mobility and range of motion.
What to Expect During and After Dry Needling
Dr. Marsh will clean your skin before beginning your dry needling treatment. You may experience pain and tenderness as Dr. Marsh identifies trigger points, and a slight pinch when he inserts the needle. He will gently tap the needle into the top layer of your skin and leave it in place for approximately 2 minutes. Your muscle may twitch and spasm during treatment, which can also cause tenderness. However, after treatment most people experience immediate pain relief and improvement in mobility.
Benefits of Dry Needling
Dry needling can relieve pain without the use of drugs or more invasive treatment options. The biggest benefits of dry needling are:
- Improved range of motion
- Reduced stiffness and inflammation
- Reduced pain
- Improved blood flow and circulation
- Accelerated healing from injury or damage
- Safe alternative to surgery, medication, or more invasive procedures
- Safe in combination with other treatment options
Find Out if Dry Needling Is Right for You
Are you interested in finding out if you are a good candidate for dry needling? Dr. Marsh and his team at Marsh Chiropractic and Wellness Center can assess your symptoms, diagnose their cause, and determine if we should integrate dry needling into your chiropractic care plan. Call us today or book an appointment online.
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Chiropractor Care
Dry Needling
