DRY NEEDLING

DRY NEEDLING

Here at Majorstuen we offer a treatment similar to acupuncture called Dry needling, also known as intramuscular stimulation where the use of solid filiform needles are used for the treatment of myofascial pain and trigger points.
Within clinical practise, we see a large number of patients who present daily with pain coming from the muscles and its connective tissue. These patients are suffering from myofascial pain syndromes, which is characterised by painful trigger points (hyperirritable spots within the muscle fibres) Some patients refer to these as knots in the muscle.

The formation of trigger points come from the creation of a taut band within the muscle. This band is caused by excessive noxious chemical stimulation. Initially they are produced as a protective mechanism by the body but then become problematic as hypoxia and decreased blood flow occur which causes pain in the area. At the same time, the ph balance around the area is decreased causing peripheral pain sensitisation. This often leaves the patient physically weaker the area also.

Myofascial trigger points are thought to occur in response to

  • Unaccustomed eccentric or concentric loading (overloading the muscle) e.g. lifting something too heavy and the muscle is unable to hold.(acute trauma)
  • Sustained postures e.g. poor posture
  • Repetitive low load stresses Using the arm in a poor position while using the mouse all day at work leading to tennis elbow.

Treatment involves placing a fine needle at the site of trigger point. This will have the following results.

  • An immediate reduction in local, referred and widespread pain.
  • Restoration of range of motion
  • Restoration of strength
  • Restoration of muscle activation patterns. (very important for chronic cases)

Dry Needling is an effective , rather quick, less invasive and when applied accordingly to sound principles, a safe treatment. At Oslo Kiropraktikk , dry needling is used together with chiropractic manipulation(HVLA) and functional training.