Cary Orthopaedic’s physical therapist, Chad Moses DN/SMT, GTS, CKTP, has produced our Patient Education Series to inform patients about various physical therapy techniques. In this episode, learn about dry needling. Below is an excerpt from the video demonstrating the process. Click here to watch the entire video.
What is dry needling?
Dry needling is a skilled intervention that uses a thin filiform needle to penetrate the skin. This then stimulates underlying myofascial trigger points, muscular and connective tissues for the purpose of managing neuromuscular pain and movement impairments. The needle is considered “dry” because of the lack of medication or injection. It should not be considered analogous to acupuncture. That is to say, dry needling is based upon Western science-based research and medicine. Meanwhile acupuncture is based on traditional Chinese medicine.
How does it work?
The process works by causing a controlled microlesion within the pathological tissue. Thus stimulating the body’s immune system to heal the target area. As a result, this breaks the pain cycle. Specifically this process helps to:
- Decrease muscle spasms
- Improve blood flow
- Increase range of motion
- Promote healing
What type of conditions does it treat?
Dry needling is an effective treatment for acute and chronic pain, tendinitis/tendinosis, muscle spasms/trigger points, sprains/strains, overuse and sports injuries. It is additionally a helpful treatment for the following conditions:
- Acute neck pain
- Chronic back pain
- Lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow)
- Achilles tendinitis
- Shoulder pain
- Plantar fasciitis
- Knee pain
Where to find dry needling in the Triangle
The physical therapists at Cary Orthopaedics – in Cary, Morrisville and Holly Springs – offer dry needling. In addition to a variety of techniques, strategies and modalities in order to treat each unique patient at the following clinics:
Davis Drive with Chad Moses, PT, CKTP, Cert DN.
Garner with Brad Baisden, PT, ATC, CKTP, Cert DN.
Cary with Christy Paine Winton, PT, CIDN.
Our certified therapists have completed intense training and passed rigorous written and practical exams.
