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Trigger Point Dry Needling

Trigger points are hypersensitive spots that are located within a taut band in the muscle, commonly known as "knots".

  • These can result from initiation of a new activity, overuse, or prolonged poor posture. 

  • Can result in ongoing muscle pain and dysfunction

  • If left untreated, trigger points can lead to muscle referred pain

  • Referred pain is pain that is preceived at a location of the body other than the original source of stimulus. 

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Close-up of shirtless man receiving dry needling therapy from physician in clinic Close-up
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What is Trigger Point Dry Needling?

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  • Dry needling is one of the more effective approaches to treatment of myofascial tigger points. 

  • It's called "dry" needling because there is no medication injected into the muscle. It is not acupuncture. 

Dry needling is a physical therapy technique where the physical therapist uses very thin needles to penetrate skin and muscles, triggering a twitch response. This causes muscles to loosen and lengthen, which helps relieve pain. Some patients report feeling a slight pinch when the needles are inserted, but most describe the procedure as relatively painless.

How does Trigger Point Dry Needling work?

 

  • A thin solid, filiform needle is inserted into the trigger point in order to stimulate the muscle. 

  • This stimulation creates a local twitch response which allows the taut band to release and the muscle to relax. 

  • The LTR changes the concentration of chemical substances and pH level within the specific TrP area. 

  • Nociceptive input is reduced, therefore reducing both local and referred pain by decreasing excitation within the spinal cord. 

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​​What causes Trigger Points?

  • Pain

  • Overuse

  • Repetitive activity

  • Stress

  • Poor posture

  • Poor sleep habits

  • Injury 

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What does Trigger Point Dry Needling do?

  • Decrease pain

  • Improve blood flow

  • Increase tolerance to activity 

  • Improve body mechanics

  • Restore function

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What conditions can Trigger Point Dry Needling treat?

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  • Neck pain & headaches

  • Vertigo

  • Back & hip pain

  • Elbow & wrist pain

  • Ankle & foot pain

  • Leg & knee pain

  • TMJ dysfunction

  • Soft tissue injuries 

  • Tendonitis, sprains & strains

  • Sports related injuries

  • Work related injuries

  • Post surgical rehab

Come See Us!

We treat everybody but everyBODY is unique. We care about your needs & develop an individualized care plan that is fitting for YOU! You’ll feel welcomed instantly by our focus on building relationships, effectively listening to your needs, dedicated encouragement, and expert treatment.

Clinic Addresses

Our Clinic Locations

Andover Physical Therapy

1574 154th Ave, NW Andover, MN 55304

Fax: 763-433-8134

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