Physiotherapists utilise a variety of therapeutic methods to relieve muscle spasms, increase muscle flexibility, and reduce discomfort.

best dry needling Melbourne has proven to be a useful method for muscle rehabilitation in both acute and chronic disorders when used alone or in combination with other physiotherapy treatments.

What is dry needling and how does it work?

Dry needling is a method that involves inserting small, sterilised needles into painful muscle locations known as trigger points.

This allows for the restoration of normal muscle length as well as a reduction in pain, supporting healthy muscle function.

What is the definition of a trigger point?

Trigger points are little knots or nodules found inside tense muscle bands that are irritating and uncomfortable to the touch.

These nodules form when a muscle is overworked and stays in a shorter state of tension rather than returning to its natural, relaxed lengthened condition (Lavelle et al., 2007).

Local muscle damage is assumed to be the cause of taut bands. This might produce pain in the affected area over time, impairing normal muscular function (Bennett, 2007).

According to research, a substantial number of patients with muscular pain have trigger points, which when palpated generate pain and discomfort that closely mirrors their symptoms.

What variables can lead to the development of trigger points?

Trigger points can be caused by a variety of factors:

• Muscle tightness occurs as a defensive body response to injury.
• Movements that are unexpected or rapid, resulting in a lack of muscle control
• As we increase our activities, our muscles become overworked.
• Muscles shorten and tense as a result of prolonged posture.
• Due to increased stress, disease, and/or dietary deficiencies, we are overburdening our bodies.

Methodology

• A suitable needle is chosen and put into a muscle in order to elicit a twitch response or to replicate the patient's symptoms.
• This is accomplished by gradually stimulating a needle inserted at a proper depth. Before experiencing a twitch or dull soreness, patients may sense a tiny prick or stinging sensation.
• This is a perfectly typical reaction that indicates that the needle has been placed correctly in the affected muscle's trigger point.

• The patient's symptoms normally improve when the muscles relax, and the needle is then securely removed.