Dry needling is an increasingly recognized and used therapeutic technique in the treatment of myofascial pain syndrome (MPS). It involves the insertion of needles into the skin without injecting any substances, aiming to provoke a mechanical stimulus in the target tissue to relieve pain and improve muscle function.
Effectiveness and Applications
While this technique is particularly indicated for muscular disorders involving myofascial trigger points (MTrPs), its effectiveness has also been observed in non-myofascial trigger points, such as those in ligamentous, tendinous, and cutaneous tissues. Although more studies are needed to validate its effectiveness in various conditions, its use continues to expand in clinical practice.
Classification and Techniques Used
This type of technique is primarily classified according to the depth the needle reaches for treatment. Under this classification:
- Superficial dry needling (SDN) occurs when the needle stays in the tissue underlying the MTrP.
- Deep dry needling (DDN), in this case, involves the needle penetrating through the MTrP.
Benefits
Dry needling offers a variety of therapeutic benefits, depending on the depth and technique used.
For superficial dry needling, effects can include:
- Analgesia through hyperstimulation.
- Stimulation of nerve fibers to block nociceptive impulses to higher centers.
- Generation of endogenous opioid peptides.
On the other hand, deep dry needling may provide additional effects to those of SDN, such as:
- Flushing out sensitizing substances through local twitch response.
- Mechanical laceration of myocytes or motor endplates to facilitate regeneration.
- Local stretching of contracted cytoskeletal structures.
- Effects on blood flow and anti-inflammatory mechanisms.
Dry needling has established itself as a valuable therapeutic technique for the management of myofascial pain, offering significant therapeutic benefits and effects at both superficial and deep levels. With a deeper understanding of its applications and mechanisms of action, health professionals can integrate this innovative technique into their clinical practice to improve treatment outcomes and quality of life for their patients.