Dry needling canton is a therapeutic treatment that eases muscle pain, relaxes tight muscles and improves movement. Physical therapists use it for a wide variety of issues, including back and neck pain, as well as muscular strains like tennis elbow or plantar fasciitis.
During this procedure, your provider inserts a specialized filiform needle into your body at various points, depths and times in your muscle. The insertion is quick and causes no more than a slight sensation. Once the needle is inserted, your provider uses electrical stimulation to create a gentle contraction and relaxation of the irritable muscle. This process inhibits a reflex arc, normalizes muscle tone and restores blood flow to the muscle.
The process takes between 30 seconds and three minutes to complete. The results should be noticeable after the treatment, though some soreness may be experienced for one to two days. Your physical therapist will work with you to determine the best post-treatment plan.
Research continues to emerge supporting the effectiveness of dry needling for neuromuscular injuries. It is widely used in combination with other treatments, such as massage therapy and exercise. If you think you could benefit from dry needling, contact us to request an initial evaluation with a physical therapist. You do not need a doctor’s referral to see a physical therapist at Memorial Hermann Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation.