MY EXPERIENCE WITH DRY NEEDLING
As a young kid, I hated needles. So, when our new PFP physical therapist, Diana Jordan, DPT, said she also offered dry needling services, I didn’t exactly jump at the idea. However, a sore hamstring muscle from an overly enthusiastic running schedule changed my mind. I wanted to give it a try. Here’s my experience with dry needling.
What is Dry Needling?
I knew a little bit about this treatment modality. Something like acupuncture? I knew they both used thin, sterile needles that were inserted into your muscles and connective tissue.
But dry needling specifically uses those needles to target muscular trigger points that are causing pain or stiffness. Acupuncture targets meridian lines and can be used to treat a variety of body ailments.
My Experience with Dry Needling
So, what did this whole process feel like?
I was a little nervous before my appointment, but Diana quickly set me at ease. After lying on the treatment table and identifying the areas of tightness on my hamstring, Diana sterilized my skin with some alcohol then told me I would feel a ‘tap’ as she started inserting the needles. The process was relatively quick and felt like a dull ache as the needles went into my muscles. Some of my muscles starting twitching, apparently a good sign that she hit the right spot. Next, she attached clip wires from an electrical stimulator to the needles and provided a gentle flow of electrical stimulation. She explained that the current helps increase blood flow to the area and promotes healing. My muscles started to twitch more but eventually stopped as they adjusted to the current. About 20 minutes later, we were all done.
The Days After
My muscle was a bit sore the next day, and I had some mild bruising – two common side effects from the procedure. But my hamstring definitely felt less tender after a few more days. I had another treatment in two weeks with continued improvement. Overall, I found the treatments much less anxiety-producing then I thought they might be, and they definitely provided relief. With some massage from our massage therapists, and strength training with my trainer, Caleb, I’m building up to running again.
If you are looking for some recovery from an injury or simply need relief from the daily grind of activities, check out all our recovery services here at PFP!