Trigger Point Therapy AKA Dry Needling

In the 1980 Travell and Simmons, described trigger point locations as 92% in correspondence with known acupuncture points. In fact they share many similarities, the main distinction being that with Trigger point treatment, the needle is inserted in a specific area where trigger points can be manually palpated and for a short period in an order to elicit a localized response which can include a muscular “twitch”, whereas in Acupuncture, the needles are inserted in an area which are known to elicit specific effects and although a patient may experience needle sensation such as a dull ache, Acupuncture does not lead to a “twitch” response. Unlike trigger point treatment needles are retained for a longer period of time.

Dry needling is especially useful for painful muscular conditions, especially where tight bands of muscle are involved.

Treatment is usually given weekly. A typical course is 4 – 8 weekly sessions. I can often combine both trigger point treatment and Acupuncture in the same treatment.

Neither of these treatments are painful as thin filiform needles are used. After insertion often the feeling of a deep ache, tingling, or distending sensation is experienced. Traditional Chinese Acupuncture describes this as the arrival of the body’s energy or Qi to the area. What we know now is that this sensation corresponds to the stimulation of small nerve fibres contained within the area of the needle.

If you are suffering from discomfort or any condition which is currently not responding to treatment give us a call or schedule an appointment above or just call on 01483 720464 or email to see if we may be able to help.