Dry Needling Acupuncture

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Published: Thursday, 30 July 2015 15:52

I have studied Dry Needling with Kieran Corcoran of the Irish Institute of Physical Therapy (http://iiptcork.com/)

Dry needling is a highly effective way of treating acute muscle spasms and chronic pain. It involves inserting fine needles directly into homeostatic (neuro) and muscular trigger points to help deactivate the pain cycle that they cause.

As a technique, dry needling draws on the traditional Chinese method of acupuncture However, it uses Western anatomical and neurophysiological principles. As with all forms of acupuncture, needles are inserted into body tissue for remedial purposes.

How does dry needling work?

Dry needling works in a number of ways:

• It relaxes the muscle and breaks the trigger point pain feedback loop
• It aids the release of neurochemicals (e.g. endorphins and corticosteroids) that stimulate self-healing and help kill pain
• It increases circulation bringing red blood cells which carry oxygen and nutrients to the problem area
• It helps to promote homeostasis: the life process that utilises minimal metabolic energy to maintain physiological harmony

A needle can get to trigger points located deep within the muscle tissue, where fingers cannot reach.

What happens during a dry needling treatment session?

The first session starts with a consultation and a treatment plan.

Before needles are inserted, the area is massaged to start the relaxation process, and then palpated to locate the trigger point causing pain.

Needles are then inserted and left there for as little as a few seconds up to 20 minutes, depending on the severity of the pain. Most people experience a pinprick sensation and a twitch response when the needles go into the trigger points.

All needles used are sterile and no fluids are injected into the body. It is a simple, effective and very safe procedure.   I am fully insured for dry needling acupuncture.

I practice from my relaxed and comfortable consulting room in the leafy Hermitage area of Morningside, Edinburgh.

Contact me to arrange a dry needling consultation