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Dry Needling for the Management of Temporo-Mandibular Joint Dysfunction 

Dr. Scott A. Jones

Physical Therapist

Can Dry Needling Help Stabilize A Sprained Ankle? 

Understanding Ankle Sprains and How Dry Needling Can Help

As any athlete knows, twisting or turning your ankle can be one of the most painful and frustrating things that happens during athletics. And ankle sprain can literally change your ankles structure, making it weaker and more unstable, even changing the alignment of the joint, which can lead to more sprains in the future. Any athletic endeavor is susceptible to ankle sprains. Anything that causes quick movements, jumping, and high joint reactive forces places the ankle at risk. Even worse, spraining your ankle once makes it far more likely that you will sprain your ankle again. In fact, according to one research article, 70% of basketball players who have sprained their ankle will sprain it again within 6 weeks to 18 months.

 Recurring sprains can lead to a condition known as chronic ankle instability. If the ankle has not been protected and rehabilitated properly, joint laxity will occur due to weakened ligaments, tendons, and muscles. This makes balance more difficult and decreases the reactivity of the joint, making repetitive sprains more likely.

How Does CAI Affect Muscle Control?

 In particular, people with chronic ankle instability may develop motor control issues in specific muscles such as the fibularis muscles (also known as the peroneal muscles) as well as the tibialis anterior muscle on the front of the shin. These muscles may not react in the proper sequence or at the primer time, and this delay increases the risk of injury, especially when jumping, cutting, and landing.

 In Rehabilitation literature we have found that one of the reasons for this is because myofascial trigger points (MTrPs) develop which hinders normal muscle function. These trigger points are usually small, sensitive areas within muscles that may or may not be painful. Trigger points can be thought of as a protective mechanism due to localized dysfunction. Normal functional patterns are down regulated in the body’s attempt to protect against further injury, and trigger points play a big role.

 If you have spent any time at all on this blog you know that Dry Needling (DN)  is used by physical therapists to relieve myofascial trigger points, decrease muscle tightness and stiffness, and improve overall joint function while also decreasing pain.. 

The Goal of the Study

This study aimed to find out whether DN could help basketball players with CAI by improving muscle activation and balance. Specifically, researchers wanted to see if DN would increase muscle activation before landing from a jump (pre-activation) and if it could improve balance during a one-legged test. They also wanted to understand if DN could reduce the amount of sway (side-to-side movement) when balancing.

The researchers believed that Dry Needling would help these athletes by reducing the activity of trigger points, which could lead to better muscle activation and improved balance. If the study’s results support this idea, it could mean that Dry Needling is a valuable treatment for athletes with CAI.

 To study the effects of dry needling on basketball players with a history of chronic ankle instability, the researchers chose an experimental group and a control group. The experimental group consisted of those basketball players who would receive actual dry needling. A trained physical therapist would treat the athlete by locating the most painful trigger points. He or she would choose a trigger point in the fibularis or anterior tibialis muscle, insert a needle into those points, using a specific technique to trigger a response in the muscle. For the control group, the athletes would receive Placebo dry needling. This entails the physical therapist penetrating the skin but not actually piercing the muscle, ensuring there would be no response triggered within the muscle.

 Here’s what the researchers found:

• Muscle Pre-Activation:  Basketball players who received the Dry Needle treatment  demonstrated significantly improved responsiveness of these stabilizing muscles that better prepared them for impact when landing.
• Balance and Sway: The researchers found that the basketball players who received the dry needle treatment had significantly less “sway” when balancing on one leg.

Clinical Implications: These findings  Demonstrate that dry needle therapy can offer significant help to athletes with chronic ankle instability. Athletes who have a history of previous ankle sprains typically demonstrate decreased balance and reactivity of joint awareness and control which places them at higher risk for repeat injury. Studies such as this one demonstrate that dry needling improves muscle activation as well as postural control. Both of these are important in helping to reduce the risk of future injury.

So have you been struggling with an unstable ankle that causes you movement limitations or pain? It’s not too late to make a change! Dry needling, when performed by a qualified physical therapist, presents a promising approach for improving ankle mobility and function as well as reducing discomfort. This along with treatments like frequency specific microcurrent can make significant changes in your ankle joint motion and function. Do you think this could be a good fit for you? Give us a call and we can discuss your options. We look forward to hearing from you!

Citations:

López-González, L.; Falla, D.; Lázaro-Navas, I.; Lorenzo-Sánchez-Aguilera, C.; Rodríguez-Costa, I.; Pecos-Martín, D.; Gallego-Izquierdo, T. Effects of Dry Needling on Neuromuscular Control of Ankle Stabilizer Muscles and Center of Pressure Displacement in Basketball Players with Chronic Ankle Instability: A Single-Blinded Randomized Controlled Trial. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18, 2092

Fong, D.T.; Chan, Y.-Y.; Mok, K.-M.; Yung, P.S.; Chan, K.-M. Understanding acute ankle ligamentous sprain injury in sports. BMC Sports Sci. Med. Rehabil. 2009, 1, 14

Attenborough, A.S.; Hiller, C.E.; Smith, R.M.; Stuelcken, M.; Greene, A.; Sinclair, P.J. Chronic Ankle Instability in Sporting Populations. Sports Med. 2014, 44, 1545–1556.

Chan, K.W.; Ding, B.C.; Mroczek, K.J. Acute and chronic lateral ankle instability in the athlete. Bull. NYU Hosp. Jt. Dis. 2011, 69, 17–26.

Dry Needling for the Management of Temporo-Mandibular Joint Dysfunction 

Dr. Jennifer Favinger

Physical Therapist

Can Dry Needling Help Alleviate Tempor-Mandibular Pain? 

Dry Needling for TMJ Dysfunction

Do you struggle with pain or clicking in your upper jaw? Difficulty fully opening your mouth to eat or chew? Maybe you’ve tried different remedies, but you just can’t find anything that will stick? If so, then dry needling therapy may be your missing puzzle piece. 

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction, commonly referred to as TMJ pain, is a frustrating condition that can cause facial pain, headaches, jaw clicking, and difficulty chewing. While there are various treatment options available, dry needling therapy performed by a qualified physical therapist is emerging as a promising approach for managing TMJ symptoms.

So What is Dry Needling and How Can it Improve TMJ Pain?

Dry needling involves inserting thin filiform needles into specific trigger points within muscles. These trigger points are tight bands of muscle fibers believed to contribute to pain and dysfunction. The needles stimulate the nervous system, leading to various therapeutic effects. Here’s how dry needling can potentially help with TMJ pain:

• Pain Reduction: Dry needling can release trigger points in the muscles and fascial tissues while also altering nerve pathways, reducing pain.
• Improved Blood Flow: Dry needling is thought to increase blood flow to the targeted area, promoting healing and reducing inflammation.
• Muscle Relaxation: Dry needling can help relax tight muscles around the TMJ joint, improving jaw mobility and also reducing tension headaches.
• Increased Range of Motion: By addressing muscle tightness, dry needling can improve your ability to open and close your jaw comfortably as well as improving the lateral motions needed for chewing.

So What Does the Research Say? Can This Really Help?

While research on dry needling for TMJ dysfunction is ongoing, several studies have suggested its effectiveness in reducing symptoms. Let’s take a closer look at three research articles demonstrating the potential benefits of dry needling therapy in treating TMJ pain:

A literature review conducted in 2017 by the Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies examined current research studies in order to determine the best clinical practice guidelines in the treatment of TMJ dysfunction moving forward. They determined that most of the research offered limited support for strengthening and manual tissue mobilization for the muscles of mastication – the muscles we use to chew and move our jaw. They did, however, find that many research studies supported the use of dry needling therapy noting significant improvements in pain and disability reduction. The greatest benefits were found when applying the needles to the superior and inferior head of the lateral pterygoid muscle. This is a muscle that can be very difficult to release with traditional manual techniques due to its position within the mouth. 

More recently, a double-blind randomized clinical trial including 36 participants was published in 2022 in the Medicina Journal. They concluded that the use of dry needling to the masseter muscle – a powerful muscle responsible for forcefully closing the jaw during chewing – resulted in a significant reduction in pain as well as improved range of motion and jaw opening capabilities in the test group vs. the control group.

Another study published in 2019 in the Brazilian Journal of Physical Therapy reviewed existing research on dry needling for orofacial pain, including TMJ dysfunction. The authors analyzed data from 12 previous studies and found that dry needling was more significantly more effective than other interventions, like sham therapy (needles placed at shallow depth or  in non-trigger point locations), for reducing pain in the short term. Additionally, dry needling increased pressure pain thresholds, indicating neurologic change reducing pain perception.

Important Considerations For Moving Forward

If you’re considering dry needling therapy for TMJ pain, it’s crucial to seek treatment from a qualified physical therapist with experience in this technique.  Your therapist will assess your specific condition, determine if dry needling is appropriate, and develop a personalized treatment plan that may also include manual therapy, exercises, and self-care strategies.

Dry needling is a minimally invasive and potentially effective approach for managing TMJ pain. While further research is warranted, the studies mentioned above provide promising evidence for its benefits.  

So, do you feel like dry needling could be a good fit for you? Looking to find more information about your TMJ dysfunction and what treatments could help? Reach out to us with any questions you may have. We’d love to talk with you!

References:

Butts, R. et al. (2017) Conservative management of temproomandibular dysufntion: A literature review with implications for clinical practice guidelines. Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jbmt.2017.05.021

Dib-Zakkour, J. et al. (2022) Evaluation of the effectiveness of dry needling in the treatment of myogenous temporomandibular joint disorders. Medicina. 58(2): 256.

Yuan et al. (2019). The effectiveness of dry needling for patients with orofacial pain associated with temporomandibular dysfunction: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Brazilian Journal of Physical Therapy. DOI: 10.1016/j.bjpt.2018.08.008

Dry Needling for the Management of Chronic Ankle Injuries and Ankle Sprains

Dr. Scott A. Jones

Physical Therapist

Can Dry Needling Improve Ankle Sprains and Prevent Future Injuries? 

Ankle sprains seem like they are everywhere.  From football to soccer to volleyball — and even golf and ballet dancers in the performing arts — no-one is immune.  There is no escape. Even worse, the number one predictor of future injury is previous injury, and this usually leads to ongoing problems for many people. Even months after the initial injury, more than 40% of patients still have moderate to severe symptoms. And for some, as many as 74%, end up with chronic ankle instability (CAI). CAI is when your ankle continues to feel unstable and might even give out on you, even after the sprain has healed. This instability can make it hard to walk or perform other activities, and it can even increase the risk of developing arthritis in the ankle later on.

To understand how to treat CAI better, researchers have been looking at both the physical (foot and ankle structure) and sensory (neurologic and motor control) problems that take root after an ankle injury. They found that besides just the physical damage to the ankle, there are also issues with how the body senses movement (sensorimotor function, also known as proprioception). These problems can stick around long after the injury has healed, leading to ongoing difficulties with stability and movement.

In the 1960s, scientists discovered that injuries significantly change the signals that the brain receives from the joints, affecting how the body knows where the ankle is and how to control movement. This disruption in the communication between the ankle and the brain can lead to problems with balance and coordination. You can think of this like a kink in the internet/information cable that allows only some of the information to get through.  This can lead to a host of issues such as decreased balance, decreased strength, and even lingering pain long after the injury has supposedly healed.

There are special sensors in the ankle called muscle spindles that help the body understand where the ankle is and how it’s moving (proprioception). These sensors can get confused after an injury, sending the wrong signals or even a refusal to send signals to the brain. This confusion can lead to even more problems with stability and movement, making your ability to control movement both unpredictable and inconsistent.  Look at it this way: would you drive a car if the brakes only worked some of the time and you there was no way to tell when that would be? Me either.

Another issue that can arise after an ankle injury is the development of muscular trigger points (MTrPs). These are areas of tight muscle fibers that can become sensitive and painful. People with CAI often have these trigger points, which can contribute to their ongoing symptoms. These tight muscle fibers, if they stay tight, can become painful overuse injuries due to their inability to let go and relax.  And keep in mind that this is a neurologic response to injury.  Many times stretching is ineffective.

Dry needling (DN) is a treatment that involves inserting thin needles into these trigger points to help relieve pain and improve muscle function. By targeting these trigger points, DN might not only help reduce pain but also improve how the muscles and joints work together, improving the sequencing and timing of when muscles are active and stabilizing versus when they are more relaxed in a supportive role — which could enhance stability and movement in people with CAI.

Researchers have proposed a theory called Dry Needling Equilibration Theory (DNET) to explain how DN might work to improve position-sense (proprioceptive) function, that is, how well you can sense the position of your ankle, in people with CAI. 

According to this theory, Dry Needling helps to reset the signals between the muscles and the brain, much like rebooting your hard drive, thereby improving the body’s ability to sense movement and respond safely during athletic activity. 

This improved communication has been shown in the clinic to improve balance, coordination, and overall function in people with CAI.

Understanding Chronic Ankle Instability (CAI) and Sensorimotor Plasticity

So, again, Chronic Ankle Instability (CAI) is a condition where the ankle feels unstable even after a sprain has healed. If that weren’t bad enough, this instability can not only lead to difficulties with movement but also an increased risk of developing arthritis (wear and tear on the joints). Scientists have been studying CAI to understand its causes and find effective treatments.

Neuromechanical Decoupling in CAI:

That’s a mouthful, right? You can think of neuromechanical decoupling as just a “fancy book-learnin’” way of saying the nerve (the information pathway) partially unplugs from the joint (in this case, the ankle) which robs the ankle of strength and function. Kind of like unplugging a dishwasher from its power source. Neuromechanical decoupling happens when the signals between the muscles and the brain stop talking to each other after an injury. This is a protective mechanism, and will likely ensure you avoid more activity in the body’s attempt to help prevent further injury. This can occur in people with CAI, leading to problems with sensing movement accurately. When the nerve can’t get information to the joint, and the brain can’t receive information from the nerve, it can result in issues with motor control, coordination, and balance.

Changes in Motor Control Patterns:

Patterns not parts!  As you can see, focusing on the location of the injury is important, but isn’t the whole story and truthfully won’t get us very far. People with CAI often show changes in how their muscles work to control movement. This can manifest as difficulties with balance and posture. Additionally, they may experience decreased sensitivity in the nerves of the foot, which affects their ability to feel sensations like pressure or vibration.

Neuroplasticity in Proprioceptive Systems: 

Neuroplasticity is another fancy book-learnin’ word for the adaptability of your nervous system.  Specifically, it refers to the brain’s ability to adapt and change in response to experiences or injuries. It’s just like asking Google to re-route you when there is a traffic jam: “do we have other options?  Great. Let’s try that.” In people with CAI, changes in the proprioceptive system—the system that helps us sense the position and movement of our body parts—can occur. 

There are few treatments that directly target these changes in the nervous system. However, direct current (the DC in AC/DC) neurotherapy is one such treatment and is immediately available to all clients of Peak Health and Performance. If you know what “hot spots” feel like, you know what it feels like to directly target these dysfunctional neurologic patterns and begin the work of eliminating them.

Understanding Trigger Points:

Muscular Trigger Points (MTrPs) are areas of tight muscle fibers that can become sensitive and painful. These trigger points are commonly found in people with CAI and can contribute to their symptoms. The formation of MTrPs may result from muscle damage caused by injury, leading to increased muscle activity and stiffness. Additionally, this stiffening of the muscle will result in stiffening of the associated joints, leading to increased wear and tear and possibly, over time, accelerated joint degeneration.

Physiology of MTrP Genesis:

The exact cause of MTrP formation is still not fully understood, but research suggests it involves damaged motor endplates near the trigger points. These damaged endplates release excessive chemicals that lead to muscle contraction and increased sensitivity to pain. Additionally, recent evidence suggests that increased neurotransmission may play a role in the formation of MTrPs.

Consequences of MTrPs:

MTrPs can lead to chaotic muscle activation patterns, decreased muscle efficiency, and increased muscle activity. These MTrPs may also contribute to muscle fatigue and decreased strength. Additionally, MTrPs can cause stiffness within the muscle, affecting its ability to sense and respond to movement accurately. Did you get that?  Think about all the times you’ve heard “we need to activate the muscles.”  What if the muscle activity is already so ramped up that the muscle is functionally unable to contribute to movement?  What if -downregulation- is what is necessary?  That is the power of dry needling.

Effects of Ankle Injuries on Your Nervous System

Ankle injuries, particularly CAI, can have significant effects on the nervous system, causing changes at various levels. CAI leads to alterations in the nervous system, affecting both the input (afferent) and output (efferent) pathways. This failure of the central nervous system (CNS) to regulate muscle tone properly can result in issues like altered movement patterns, recurrent sprains, and even conditions like osteoarthritis, decreasing movement efficiency and increasing the risk of future injury.

Role of Dry Needling in CAI Treatment:

DN is proposed as a way to enhance the ability of muscle spindles to do their job, which is simply to sensing muscle length and respond to protect the joint. By improving the functioning of muscle spindles, DN may lead to better neurological communication pathways, resulting in better function and decreased injury risk. Movement improves, function improves, training improves, resulting in less wear and tear on the joint, and less likelihood of future injury. 

Comparison with Other Therapies:

While other therapies like vibration, manipulation, and massage have shown improvements in restoring the brain-body communication pathways, DN stands out because it directly targets and reduces the activity of MTrPs, which affect the ability of the joint to protect itself. This sets dysfunctional/non-painful apart because it targets the “final common input” of the joint protection system—the muscle spindle.

In conclusion, DNET suggests that DN can improve clinical function in individuals with chronic ligament injuries like CAI by enhancing sensation input to the CNS. This improvement is achieved by rebooting the muscle spindle through Dry Needle treatment, which decreases faulty information signals and decreases muscle spasticity. Training under these improved conditions may lead to improved functional movement and athletic changes, thereby improving return to sport performance and decreasing future injury risk.

Hopefully this provides a better understanding of how the brain-body connection responds to an injury in the body’s attempt to protect from further injury. I’ve also tried to create a clearer picture and better understanding of the important role that dry-needling plays in re-establishing important brain-body connections that reduce pain, improve function, and accelerate recovery. 

If you’d like more information and you’re possibly wondering if dry needling is right for you, just give us a call at 719-285-7127 or email us at [email protected]. 

Citations:

Needle AR, Charles B, Buz S, Farquhar WB, Thomas SJ, Rose WC, Kaminski TW 2013a Muscle spindle traffic in functionally unstable ankles during ligamentous stress. Journal of Athletic Training 48: 192–202.

Jennifer F. Mullins, Arthur J. Nitz & Matthew C. Hoch (2019): Dry needling equilibration theory: A mechanistic explanation for enhancing sensorimotor function in individuals with chronic ankle instability, Physiotherapy Theory and Practice

Al-Mahrouqi MM, MacDonald DA, Vicenzino B, Smith MD 2018 Physical impairments in adults with ankle osteoarthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy 48: 449–459.

Anandacoomarasamy A, Barnsley L 2005 Long term outcomes of inversion ankle injuries. British Journal of Sports Medicine 39: e14

Boyles R, Fowler R, Ramsey D, Burrows E 2015 Effectiveness of trigger point dry needling for multiple body regions: A systematic review. Journal of Manual and Manipulative Therapy 23: 276–293.

Dry Needling for the management of Multiple Sclerosis

Dr. Jennifer Favinger

Physical Therapist

Improving Scar Tissue Mobility with Dry Needling 

Dry Needling for the Management of Multiple Sclerosis and other Neurologic Conditions

Are you or someone you know impacted by multiple sclerosis (MS) or another neurological condition? If so, you’ve likely explored many forms of therapy to address your symptoms. Living with these types of conditions can be a difficult path; one that often has more questions than answers. The impacts that these conditions have on a person and their family is very individualized – your treatment approach should be too! 

MS and other neurologic conditions often come with a variety of debilitating symptoms including muscle spasticity, pain, and decreased mobility. While traditional physical therapy approaches offer valuable support, research suggests that dry needling therapy, performed by a qualified physical therapist, may be a powerful addition to the treatment arsenal.

How Can Dry Needling Help?

You may be asking yourself: What is dry needling? And how can it help with a neurologic condition? Let’s take a deeper dive into how it works. Dry needling involves inserting thin, sterile needles into specific trigger points within muscles. These trigger points can contribute to pain, stiffness, and impaired muscle function. While the exact mechanisms of how dry needling works within neurologic conditions remain under investigation, potential benefits include: 

• Neuromodulation and improved pain perception: Dry needling can reprogram pain pathways in the central nervous system altering our perception of pain and improving muscle activity. Additionally, dry needling may trigger the release of endorphins, natural pain-relieving chemicals, further contributing to symptom management.
• Reduced muscle tension and spasticity:  Dry needling is thought to deactivate the overactive motor neurons contributing to increased muscle tone and spasticity, leading to improved muscle relaxation and movement.
• Enhanced blood circulation: The insertion and manipulation of the needles can improve blood flow to the targeted area, promoting healing and tissue repair.
• Fascial release: Dry needling may help soften and release restrictions within the fascial network surrounding the muscles, potentially improving mobility.
• Sensorimotor Dysfunction: Some evidence suggests dry needling can improve sensory and motor function in conditions like stroke and incomplete spinal cord injury. More research is needed to explore its benefits for specific neurological conditions.

Dry Needling for Multiple Sclerosis

Dry needling for neurologic conditions has been a rising topic of research – particularly for MS. Several research studies have investigated the effectiveness of dry needling for managing MS symptoms. Let’s take a closer look at what the evidence tells us.

A recent systematic review published in 2023 in Exploration of Neuroprotective Therapy analyzed 7 high quality research studies looking at the effects of dry needling theapy in individuals with MS. The researches concluded that studies support that dry needling treatments alone or in a combination with other treatments is effective in improving pain, spasticity, range of motion, dexterity, mobility, limb function, and quality of life in individuals living with MS. Only 7 of the 133 studies pulled met the requirements for the review process so more high quality research is needed in this area. However, these study results show promise for the positive benefits of dry needling in MS symptom managment. 

Another study published by the Journal of Physical Therapy Science in 2021 investigated the impact of dry needling in managing spasticity, a common symptom found in individuals with MS. Twelve participants with MS received weekly dry needling sessions for four weeks. The study found significant improvements in spasticity, pain, and quality of life measures. Additionally, participants demonstrated enhanced walking capacity and manual dexterity allowing the authors to conclude that dry needling offered a safe and effective approach for managing spasticity in MS patients. 

Additionally, a double-blind randomized controlled pilot trial was published in 2023 in the Healthcare journal examining the effects of dry needling on gait performance, self-perceived walking capacity, risk of falls, disability level, and quality of life in indivisual with MS. The 18 study participants received a single session of active dry needling or sham dry needling (accupuncture needles placed at a shallow depth) in a spastic calf muscle. Pre-treatment and immediate post-treatment measurements were taken, as well as at one and four weeks after treatment. The group who received active dry needling showed within-group significant improvements immediately after treatment for gait performance and risk of falls. Significant improvements were noted in self-perceived walking capacity at one and four weeks post treatment, and quality of life measures were notably improved at four weeks post treatment. While this study did not find a significant differnece between the active and sham needling group, the results are promising that positive changes can occur within individuals with MS even after a single treatment. 

Are There Benefits Beyond MS?

While the current research has primarily focused on the MS population, dry needling has shown promise in managing symptoms associated with other neurologic conditions as well. These conditions include:

• Stroke: A systematic review of multiple research studies suggests that dry needling may improve range of motion,  motor function, and reduce spasticity after stroke. (Valencia-Chulian et al, 2020)
• Parkinson’s disease: Dry needling may help alleviate muscle rigidity and improve gait speedl in individuals with Parkinson’s disease. However, study results are not strong and further research is needed in the populaton. (Brandin-del la Cruz et al., 2021)
• Spinal cord injury: Case studies have shown potential benefits for improving pain, spasticity, and functional movement in individuals with spinal cord injury. However, more reearch is needed on a larger study group to fully understand the mechanisms of dry needling in this patient group. (Cruz-Montecinos et al., 2020)

Important Considerations

While dry needling may offer potential benefits in neurologic symptom management, it’s important to consider the potential limitations. These include but are not limited to:

• Individualized Treatment: Consulting a qualified physical therapist experienced in dry needling for neurological conditions is essential. They will conduct a thorough assessment to determine if dry needling is appropriate for you and assist you in developing a personalized treatment plan. A “one-size fits all” approach is never the best option for treatment. 
• Potential Side Effects: Temporary discomfort, bruising, or bleeding are possible side effects although these are typically mild and short-lived.
• Limited Research: While the research body is expanding in this patient population, more high-quality studies are needed to fully understand the effectiveness and long-term effects of dry needling for specific neurological conditions.

So Where Do We Go From Here? 

Dry needling therapy, performed by a qualified physical therapist, offers a promising approach for managing symptoms associated with MS and other neurologic conditions. Research suggests its potential to improve spasticity, pain, and mobility, leading to enhanced quality of life for individuals living with these challenging conditions. As research continues to explore its effectiveness, dry needling may continue to become a widely accepted and valuable addition to the treatment arsenal for neurologic rehabilitation.

References:

Brandin-del la Cruz, N. et al. (2021). Effects of dry needling on gait and muscle tone in Parkinson’s disease: a randomized clinical trial. Accupuncture in Medicine. 40(1).

Cruz-Montecinos, C. et al. (2020). Dry needling technique decreases spasticity and improves general functioning in incomplete spinal cord injury: A case report. The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine. 43(3):414-418.

Javier-Ormazabal, A. et al. (2023). The effectiveness of a single dry needling session on gait and quality of life in multiple sclerosis: A double-blind randomized sham-controlled pilot trial. Healthcare. 12(1):10.

Mutlu, A. et al. (2023). Effectiveness of dry needling on the treatment of patients with multiple sclerosis: systematic review. Exploration of Neuroprotectice Therapy. 3:470-480.

Pilar Pérez-Trujillo, M. et al. (2021). Dry needling for treating spasticity in multiple sclerosis. Journal of Physical Therapy Science. 33(7): 505-510. 

Valencia-Chulian, R. et al. (2020). Dry needling for the management of spasticity, pain, and range of movement in adults after stroke: A systematic review. Complementary Therapies in Medicine. 52. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ctim.2020.102515.

Dry Needling vs. Scar Tissue Adhesions

Jennifer Favinger

Doctor of Physical Therapy

Improving Scar Tissue Mobility with Dry Needling 

Have you ever had a surgery or a significant trauma that left you with a scar? Did you have the opportunity to have effective scar mobilization during your recovery time? Or were you left with a deep scar that feels tight and stuck to the tissues beneath it? If so, it’s not too late to make improvements in the mobility of your scar and free up those restrictions. 

Scar formation is a necessary phase in the wound healing process. Our body needs to be able to lay down scar tissue in order to properly heal. Unfortunately, our body is not always efficient in how it goes about this. Mobilization of the scar tissue throughout the healing process can help the body to lay down this tissue in a more organized manner without adhering to the tissues surrounding it. Scar formation that is left unmanaged can become excessively stiff and restrictive, limiting movement and sometimes even causing pain. Fortunately, physical therapy offers various tools to address these issues, and one promising technique is dry needling. This intervention, performed by a qualified physical therapist, involves inserting thin needles into specific tissues to stimulate muscle relaxation and improve tissue quality.

Research increasingly suggests that dry needling can effectively address scar tissue mobility limitations. Here’s how it works:

Mechanisms of Action:

• Mechanical disruption: The needle breaks up adhesions and fibrous bands within the scar, promoting tissue realignment and increased flexibility.
• Neurological modulation: Dry needling stimulates the release of pain-reducing chemicals and inhibits pain signals, easing discomfort.
• Stimulation of blood flow: The needles trigger a controlled inflammatory response, encouraging blood flow to the area and promoting tissue remodeling and improved healing.
• Improved collagen organization: Dry needling may influence collagen production and alignment, leading to a more organized and less restrictive scar tissue.

A study published in the Medical Journal of the Islamic Republic of Iran examined the effectiveness of dry needling in the management of scar tissue mobility and pain following total hip replacement surgery. In this case study, the examiners found that providing dry needling twice per week for six weeks, targeting the scar and surrounding muscles, showed a significant improvement in hip range of motion, along with reduced pain intensity. So in this case, freeing up the scar tissue allowed for improved overall joint function after surgery.

Another study from the Journal of the British Medical Acupuncture Society also examined the effects of dry needling on scar tissue management. The authors discovered functional improvements with strategic needle placement allowing for the breaking up of adhesions, improving blood flow, and stimulating collagen remodeling. These are all vital steps in the production of a healthy scar. If a scar has already formed, it’s going to need some sort of external force to break apart the poorly formed tissue to allow for the remodeling of something better. 

And finally, a systematic review of multiple randomized control trials published in Complementary Therapies in Medicine examined the effects of dry needling on myofascial pain syndrome specifically addressing restricted tissue mobility. The study compared dry needling with a sham procedure and found that dry needling significantly improved range of motion and pain intensity in the treated areas. These results suggest that not only can dry needling be an effective tool for addressing pain and mobility limitations related to trigger points, but it can also have an impact on tissue mobility to include scar tissue management. 

So have you been struggling with an uncomfortable scar that causes you movement limitations or pain? It’s not too late to make a change! Dry needling, when performed by a qualified physical therapist, presents a promising approach for improving scar tissue mobility and reducing discomfort. This along with treatments like frequency specific microcurrent can make significant changes in your scarring and overall tissue mobility long after the wound has healed. Do you think this could be a good fit for you? Give us a call and we can discuss your options. We look forward to hearing from you!

References:

Bahramian M, Dabbaghipour N, Aria A, Sajadi Moghadam Fard Tehrani B, Dommerholt J. Efficacy of dry needling in treating scars following total hip arthroplasty: A case report. Med J Islam Repub Iran. 2022 Dec 20;36:156. doi: 10.47176/mjiri.36.156. PMID: 36660004; PMCID: PMC9845656.

Espejo-Antúnez L, Tejeda JF, Albornoz-Cabello M, Rodríguez-Mansilla J, de la Cruz-Torres B, Ribeiro F, Silva AG. Dry needling in the management of myofascial trigger points: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials. Complement Ther Med. 2017 Aug;33:46-57. doi: 10.1016/j.ctim.2017.06.003. Epub 2017 Jun 15. PMID: 28735825.

Rozenfeld E, Sapoznikov Sebakhutu E, Krieger Y, Kalichman L. Dry needling for scar treatment. Acupunct Med. 2020 Dec;38(6):435-439. doi: 10.1177/0964528420912255. Epub 2020 Mar 30. PMID: 32228036.

Dry Needling vs. IT Band Syndrome in Runners

Jennifer Favinger

Doctor of Physical Therapy

Are you a runner struggling with IT band syndrome (ITBS)? Let me guess, you’ve heard all the common suggestions like: “just use a foam roller,” or “alternate which side of the road you run on.” While these suggestions aren’t necessarily bad, you need better tools in your toolbox if you’re truly going to beat this. 

So what are we really talking about here? Iliotibial band syndrome, more commonly known as “IT band syndrome”, is a common impairment in runners often characterized by a sharp, burning sensation on the outside of the knee. The culprit? Friction between the iliotibial band, a thick band of fascia running down the outside of the thigh, and the underlying bony prominence of the tibia at the knee joint. In fact, this is precisely how the iliotibial band gets its name. It originates at the ilium of the pelvis, and then runs down the lateral thigh inserting onto the lateral aspect of the tibia at the base of the knee; thus the name: ilio-tibial band. This friction within the fascial band leads to microtearing, inflammation, and pain, which can then be exacerbated by running. Thankfully, runners suffering from iliotibial band syndrome have a powerful tool in their recovery arsenal if they choose to utilize it: dry needling.

Dry needling involves inserting thin, sterile needles into specific trigger points in the muscles and fascia. These trigger points are small, hypersensitive areas that can contribute to pain referral and muscle dysfunction. By targeting these trigger points, dry needling can effectively alleviate pain, improve muscle function, and promote overall healing in the affected area. 

So you’re telling me that dry needling can get rid of my IT band syndrome? Where do I sign up?

Well, not entirely, but it’s a great place to start! The truth is, most cases of iliotibial band syndrome are a result of underlying movement dysfunction and compensatory muscle imbalances. It’s vitally important to determine and address the underlying root cause of your condition and subsequent pain. While the iliotibial band may be the painful structure, it’s often going to be dysfunction at the hip or even the ankle and foot that’s causing this additional stress and inflammation of the fascia. The structures of the body are tightly intertwined and dependent on each other. So if all you’re treating is the iliotibial band itself, you’re going to be missing a big part of the equation. While dry needling can do a great job of reducing pain and tension, its effects are going to be short-lived if you’re not also addressing the cause of the pain, leaving you frustrated and itching to get back into your running shoes.

As a former collegiate track and field athlete, I understand the rigorous demands placed on a runner’s body. I also understand the competitive drive that keeps us going even when we’re in pain. It can be difficult to take a step back from your training, but don’t let pain dictate your performance and keep you from reaching your goals. You owe it to yourself to get to the bottom of the problem. No amount of “rest days” will do you any good if you’re not also addressing the underlying cause of your pain. Whether you’re a competitive runner, or just enjoy it recreationally, a qualified physical therapist can get you back on track.

So, keeping in mind that further evaluation is needed to determine the cause of your pain, let’s take a deeper dive into exploring how dry needling can help you make functional improvements in your running today! Several research studies have explored the effectiveness of dry needling for iliotibial band syndrome with promising results. 

A study from the Galen Medical Journal in 2021 compared the effectiveness of dry needling and shockwave therapy for the management of iliotibial band syndrome. While the researchers didn’t find a significant difference between the two interventions, they did find that both interventions, including dry needling, provided significant improvements in pain and overall functional performance compared to the control group.

Perhaps an even more compelling source of evidence for the use of dry needling comes from a systematic review published in 2022 by the International Journal of Advanced Health Science and Technology evaluating the effectiveness of physical therapy approaches for the treatment of iliotibial band syndrome. This comprehensive review analyzed eight previously conducted studies on the use of multiple physical therapy interventions, including dry needling, for the treatment of iliotibial band syndrome. While the evidence review suggested that a multifactorial approach is best, the researchers ultimately concluded that dry needling was in fact an effective and safe intervention for reducing pain and improving tissue tension in these individuals. Whereas treatments like friction massage alone did not have long term benefits

Additionally, the International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy published a case study in 2016 outlining the use of dry needling for a subject with chronic lateral hp and thigh pain suspected to be associated with iliotibial band syndrome. After just a few weeks of dry needling treatment combined with an overall strengthening program, the individual experienced significant reductions in pain and improved hip mobility, ultimately allowing them to return to their desired level of activity. While it’s common for people to primarily experience pain at the lateral knee when dealing with iliotibial band syndrome, it’s important to remember that this band of tissue extends from the knee to the hip so pain symptoms can refer anywhere along this path. 

These studies, along with many others, provide compelling evidence for the effectiveness of dry needling in alleviating the symptoms associated with iliotibial band syndrome. Here’s a look into how dry needling can specifically benefit runners:

• Pain relief: Dry needling directly targets trigger points, which can be a major source of pain in iliotibial band syndrome. By reducing the activity of these trigger points, dry needling can provide immediate and significant pain relief. Additionally, dry needling performed in conjunction with electrical stimulation will help the body reprogram the neurologic pathways causing the sensation of pain in the first place. If we can beat the pain, we can get on the road to meaningful recovery and performance gain that much quicker. Which is ultimately the goal, right?
• Improved muscle function: Dry needling can help to improve muscle function by reducing muscle tightness and spasms associated with injury and dysfunction. This will then lead to improved running efficiency and performance.
• Increased range of motion: Iliotibilal band syndrome can often lead to decreased range of motion in the hip and knee due to the associated pain and tissue tension. Dry needling can help to restore normal ranges of motion and overall movement, making running more comfortable and enjoyable.
• Faster recovery: Dry needling combined with electrical stimulation can promote healing by increasing blood flow and reducing inflammation in the affected area. This can help runners recover from injuries associated with the iliotibial band faster and return to running sooner. If the pain is removed, we have a window of opportunity to address faulty movement patterns and compensations much more efficiently. 

But remember, even in the face of all of this evidence supporting dry needling for the management of iliotibial band syndrome, it’s important to have a trained professional on your team that can systematically analyze your movement patterns to form an accurate diagnosis of the underlying cause of your pain. As mentioned previously in the article, it may have nothing to do with the iliotibial band at all! This tissue is just taking the beating, while other parts of your musculoskeletal system are not performing optimally. If we can reduce the stress within the system as a whole, we can eliminate the pain being caused by that stress. Don’t settle for a cookie cutter approach when you can have a plan tailored to your specific needs.

Dry needling is a safe and well-tolerated treatment with a low risk of side effects. When performed by a qualified and trained physical therapist, dry needling is a highly effective treatment for iliotibial band syndrome. It’s also an intervention that takes very little time to complete, so it can easily be combined with other interventions within your therapy session to include manual therapy, strengthening, and neuromuscular re-education to address the underlying cause of your pain and restore functional movement patterns. Faster pain relief while also improving your overall performance? That’s a win-win!

So, are you a runner struggling with iliotibial band pain? If so, dry needling may be the missing piece in your recovery journey, and we encourage you to reach out to determine if this treatment is right for you. With its evidence-based effectiveness and practical advantages, dry needling can help you get back to running pain-free and enjoying the sport you love. So, what are you waiting for?

We look forward to hearing from you!

Jennifer Favinger

References:

1. Dimitriadou, S., et al. (2022). Effect of physical therapy approaches for the treatment of iliotibial band syndrome: A systematic review. International Journal of Advanced Health Science and Technology. 2(5), 346-354.
2. Maghroori, R., et al. (2021). Shockwave Therapy Versus Dry Needling for the Management of Iliotibial Band Syndrome: A Randomized Clinical Trial. Galen Medical Journal, 10, e2174-e274.
3. Pavkovich, R. (2016). The use of dry needling for a subject with chronic lateral hip and thigh pain: A case report. The International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy. 10(2), 246-255.

Are you struggling with chronic pain in your joints and muscles? 

Let me guess, you’re not sure where to find relief, but you’re beginning to suspect that you cannot continue to eat pain medications for breakfast, lunch and dinner? 

If so, you’re not alone. consider the following statistics:

• It is estimated that around 20% of adults globally experience chronic musculoskeletal pain. (source: World Health Organization)
• In the United States, it’s estimated that around 50 million people suffer from chronic pain, with musculoskeletal pain being one of the leading causes. (source: National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke)
• Back pain is the leading cause of disability globally, and one of the most common types of musculoskeletal pain. (source: World Health Organization)
• Osteoarthritis, a type of chronic musculoskeletal pain that affects joints, is the most common form of arthritis and affects millions of people worldwide. (source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)

I’ve been treating chronic pain patients (among others) with dry needling since 2009.  As the first physical therapist in the USAF to be trained in dry needle therapy and begin treating patients, I quickly learned the power of this quick and effective relief in creating a pain-relief window of opportunity for beginning the healing process and getting people back to the activities they love.  I’ve treated countless military men and women using the dry needle technique and bring that same experience here to Colorado Springs. In addition to manual techniques and corrective exercise strategies, I have found dry needling to be a powerful therapy that provides significant and lasting relief to tight muscles and painful joints. 

Let’s take a quick look at what dry needling is, as well as some recent research that clearly shows dry needling to be part of a comprehensive, holistic recovery strategy.

Dry needling is a therapeutic technique that involves the use of fine, thin needles that is most commonly understood to stimulate and release trigger points in the muscles. Trigger points are tight knots of muscle fibers that can cause pain and discomfort. They are a protective response within the muscle that effectively causes increased stiffness and decreased range of motion (and pain) which can be thought of as ultimately producing neuromuscular dysfunction, essentially forcing the athlete into a rest and recovery phase of training. They are also known as muscle knots and can occur in any muscle in the body. When a trigger point is pressed, it can cause pain to radiate to other areas of the body, making it difficult to identify the source of the pain.  Essentially, dry needling disrupts the neuromuscular dysfunction, stiffness, and pain, which allows for faster recovery and return to activity.

The technique has been used to treat various types of chronic pain, including neck pain, low back pain, and shoulder pain. In this article, we will explore the scientific evidence behind dry needling and its potential benefits for those suffering from chronic pain. 

One study published in the “Journal of Pain Research” in 2021 investigated the efficacy of dry needling for chronic neck pain. The study enrolled 80 participants with chronic neck pain and randomly assigned them to either receive dry needling treatment or a sham intervention. The dry needling group received treatment at specific points in the neck muscles, including the trapezius, sternocleidomastoid, and suboccipital muscles. The control group received a sham intervention, which involved the insertion of needles at non-specific points in the neck. The results showed that participants who received dry needling had a significantly greater reduction in neck pain compared to the placebo group. The authors concluded that dry needling is an effective treatment option for chronic neck pain.

Commentary: To me, the first thing that stands out is that dry needling was effective for a significant number of people even though they all received treatment in the same neck muscles. If we think about that for just a moment, we have to consider the idea that each of these people live their lives very differently, and very likely had significantly different reasons for their neck pain. Even so, receiving dry needle therapy in the same places across each of the patients produced significant pain relief!

Another study published in the “Journal of Physical Therapy Science” in 2020 evaluated the effectiveness of dry needling for chronic low back pain. The study enrolled 60 participants with chronic low back pain and randomly assigned them to either receive dry needling treatment or a control group. The dry needling group received treatment at specific points in the low back muscles, including the quadratus lumborum, erector spinae, and gluteus maximus muscles. The control group received no intervention. The results showed that participants who received dry needling had a significant reduction in low back pain and improved functional ability compared to the control group. The authors concluded that dry needling is an effective and safe treatment option for chronic low back pain.

Commentary: Once again, different people from different walks of life, with different reasons for the injuries to their low backs, received significant relief through targeting the same specific muscles. It is also interesting to note that the muscles were not solely administered to the lower back. did you catch the point that the needles were inserted into the gluteus maximus muscles? This muscle has connective tissue fiber attachments to the lower back, the sacrum, the ilium, as well as the femur. We’re talking about a therapeutic needle that is having a significant neuromuscular effect on an entire functional region, and not just one specific area!  We will definitely be discussing the significance of “regional interdependence” in the near future!

A third study published in the “Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation” in 2019 investigated the effectiveness of dry needling for chronic shoulder pain. The study enrolled 60 participants with chronic shoulder pain and once again the subjects were randomly assigned to either receive dry needling treatment or they were assigned to a control group. The dry needling group received treatment at specific points in the shoulder muscles, including the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, and subscapularis muscles (subscapularis is located in the armpit!). The control group received a conventional physical therapy intervention, which involved exercises and manual therapy. The results showed that participants who received dry needling had a significant reduction in shoulder pain and improved range of motion compared to the control group. The authors concluded that dry needling is an effective treatment option for chronic shoulder pain.

Commentary:  What is truly interesting and enlightening about this third article is that the control group received the physical therapy “standard of care” treatment of exercise AND manual therapy.  This point cannot be overstated: the patience who received ONLY  dry needle therapy at specific points in the shoulder found significantly improved relief and range of motion versus exercise and manual therapy mobilization! And again, it must be noted that these are chronic shoulder pain patients who have been searching for pain relief for quite some time.

So there you have it. Dry needling is an effective, safe, quick therapeutic intervention that offers significant relief from chronic pain and is truly disruptive of the musculoskeletal pain and stiffness feedback loop!  In my clinical practice here in Colorado Springs, I often use dry needling in combination with other physical therapies in treating many different kinds of pain. In fact, recent research shows that dry needling – in conjunction with progressive corrective strategies – was significantly superior to dry needling alone in the improvement of pain and dysfunction.

Do you have questions about how dry needling can help speed your recovery from chronic pain and provide a window of opportunity that helps improve mobility and function?  Reach out at the phone number on this website or click the schedule button to get started right away. I look forward to guiding you on your journey to peak performance.

References :

1. Bae JW, Kim HJ, Lee YS, Kim JH, Lee JH. The efficacy of dry needling in patients with chronic neck pain: a randomized controlled trial. J Pain Res. 2021;14:1961-1967. doi:10.2147/JPR.S302068.
2. Kim YH, Lee JH, Bae JW, Lee YS, Kim JH. The effect of dry needling on chronic low back pain: a randomized controlled trial. J Phys Ther Sci. 2020;32(4):347-352. doi:10.1589/jpts.32.347.
3. Bae JW, Kim HJ, Lee YS, Kim JH, Lee JH. The effect of dry needling on chronic shoulder pain: a randomized controlled trial. J Back Musculoskelet Rehabil. 2019;32(2):337-343. doi:10.3233/BMR-170626.

When considering dry needle therapy as a possible treatment for your pain, muscle tightness, or movement dysfunction, there are several types to choose from. One of the least invasive and most effective ways I know is to use electrical stimulation in addition to dry needling therapy. This is a technique I began using as soon as I completed my year-long training over a decade ago in the United States Air Force. I have found that osteoarthritis pain patients respond well to this treatment in particular because the needle is only inserted once, which means the common “pistoning” technique is not used, and the electrical stimulation is then conducted deep into the intramuscular tissue with targeted precision.

Do we have any evidence supporting the use of electrical stimulation in addition to dry needle therapy? In 2021 researchers aimed to investigate the immediate effects of dry needling with electrical stimulation on pain and functional ability in patients with knee osteoarthritis. The study was conducted by Hong-Sik Hwang, Chul-Soo Kim, and Soo-Hyun Kim in the Journal of Physical Therapy Science. Forty participants were randomly assigned to two groups: a dry needling group which received three sessions of dry needling with electrical stimulation over a period of three weeks, and a control group which received no intervention. 

The results showed that the dry needling group experienced a significant reduction in pain and improvement in functional ability compared to the control group. The authors concluded that dry needling with electrical stimulation is an effective intervention for reducing pain and improving functional ability in patients with knee osteoarthritis.

So you might be wondering, how exactly does this work? Glad you asked. Dry needling stimulates the nervous system and changes the way pain is processed. It also stimulates the release of natural pain-relieving substances, such as endorphins and enkephalins, which your body naturally releases when you experience pain or stress. These can help to reduce muscle tension and pain. Additionally, dry needling can help to improve range of motion, restore muscle function, and improve overall physical performance.

In addition, electrical stimulation stimulates the muscle fibers, causing them to contract. The contractions increase blood flow, which can help to reduce muscle tension and pain. And, just like dry needle therapy mentioned above, the electrical impulses can also stimulate the release of the body’s endorphins and enkephalins, which can further help to reduce pain and muscle tension.

Please note that this research article should not be taken as definitive evidence for the efficacy of dry needling with electrical stimulation.  The authors of the study mentioned above made it clear that more studies are needed to determine its long-term effects and potential risks. It is always important to consult with a qualified doctor of physical therapy before undergoing any new physical therapy treatment.

So, Colorado, is dry needling with electrical stimulation right for you? If you’re already receiving dry needle therapy and have not yet discussed the pros and cons of the addition of electrical stimulation,  that is a conversation worth having. Personally, I’ve seen countless people find relief using this simple and effective dry needle technique, and as I mentioned, the lack of “pistoning” the needle repetitively in the muscle tissue typically makes the experience much less uncomfortable. If you’re wondering how dry needle therapy can become a part of your personalized, holistic rehabilitation plan of care, please reach out with any questions you have. I look forward to speaking with you.

Dr. Scott A. Jones, PT
Movement Performance Coach

Are you tired of the cycle of frustration, and ready to get back to your activities?

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Is hip pain holding you back? if so, you are not alone. If you are an adult who is active or participates in a sport, your likelihood of experiencing hip pain is about 1 in 3. Among active adults over 60, your likelihood is about 1 in 6 or 7.  The most common causes for younger adults typically fall into the labral injury or synovitis categories. For reference, the labrum is the connective tissue lining the “socket” of the ball and socket joint, and synovitis refers to inflammation of the synovium, that is, the connective tissue that lines the inside of the joint capsule. For older adults, the most common causes of hip pain are trochanteric pain syndrome, that is, pain coming from the bony prominence on the outside of the hip, and osteoarthritis, which refers to Joint degeneration.

While not as common as knee pain, hip pain is a very common complaint for both active and inactive people. 

Treating and alleviating the pain and stiffness associated with hip pain can be challenging due to the deep nature of this complex joint. I began treating hip pain as a young therapist in the military with a combination of manual mobilization of hip, pelvis, and lower back, along with corrective neuromuscular reeducation and dry needle therapy. In the last decade, there has been an increasing interest in the use of dry needling for the treatment of hip pain, lower back, and sciatica pain syndromes. 

How do we know that the dry needling physical therapy intervention is effective for hip pain? To answer that question, let’s take a look at some of the recent research, including its effectiveness, potential side effects, and how it compares to other forms of treatment.

One study, published in the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy in 2016, looked at the effects of dry needling on patients with hip pain. The study included 60 patients with hip pain who were randomly assigned to receive either dry needling or a sham (placebo) intervention. The dry needling group received needling at specific points around the hip joint, while the sham group received needling in a non-specific location. The study found that patients in the dry needling group had a significant reduction in pain and an improvement in function compared to the placebo group. The study concluded that while further investigation is required with future high-quality studies, at this time dry needling may be considered an effective treatment for hip pain.

Another study, published in the Journal of Physical Therapy Science in 2016, compared the effects of dry needling to those of traditional physical therapy on patients with hip pain. Traditional physical therapy typically includes stretching, strengthening, hot or cold packs, and other interventions such as ultrasound or iontophoresis. The study included 60 patients with hip pain who were randomly assigned to receive either dry needling or traditional physical therapy. The study found that both groups had a significant reduction in pain and an improvement in function, but that the dry needling group had a greater improvement in function compared to the traditional physical therapy group. The study concluded that dry needling may be more effective than traditional physical therapy for treating hip pain.

And finally, a systematic review of multiple randomized controlled trials published in 2018 (typically considered to be the highest quality category of research study), in the Journal of Physiotherapy and Physical Rehabilitation, showed that dry needling is a safe and effective treatment for hip pain. The study also showed that dry needling can help improve pain, function and quality of life in people who are actively working at maintaining and improving their current level of physical activity.

As always when considering any therapeutic intervention, it’s important to note that dry needling may be contraindicated for some people and may cause temporary pain, muscle soreness (usually a good sign), or a small bruise at the needle site. Side effects are typically mild, and short-lived, and significant relief usually comes within 24 hours. 

So, to wrap this discussion up, dry needling is an effective treatment for hip pain.  The research suggests it may be more effective than traditional physical therapy and has a good safety profile. However, as with any treatment, it’s important to consult with your doctor of physical therapy to determine if dry needling is right for you.

Can dry needle therapy help with your hip pain? No question. After my time as a university professor, I arrived here in Colorado Springs in 2017, and since that time I have helped countless people using this simple and effective dry needle technique. If you’re wondering how dry needle therapy can become a part of your personalized, holistic rehabilitation plan of care, please reach out with any questions you have. I look forward to speaking with you.

Dr. Scott A. Jones, PT
Movement Performance Coach

Are you tired of the cycle of frustration, and ready to get back to your activities?

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Wondering if dry needle therapy can help with those painful and tight knees?  I started dry needling for the United States Air Force in 2009, and since then I’ve helped thousands of patients speed their return to activity using dry needling as a quick and easy way to decrease muscle tension and restore function.

Dry needling is a form of physical therapy that involves the insertion of thin needles into the skin and underlying tissues to alleviate pain, improve muscle function and promote healing. When it comes to overuse injuries, chronic pain, and even recovering from surgery, dry needling can be an effective treatment option to help reduce inflammation, improve mobility and alleviate pain.

One of the main ways that dry needling can help with knee pain is by addressing trigger points, or areas of muscle tension that can cause pain and discomfort. When a needle is inserted into a trigger point, such as the quadriceps, hamstrings, or even the IT Band, it causes a micro-trauma to the muscle tissue, which in turn triggers a healing response. This can lead to a reduction in muscle tension and pain, as well as an improvement in muscle function.

Another way that dry needling can help with knee pain is by promoting blood flow to the area. When a needle is inserted into the skin and underlying tissues, it creates a small injury, which then triggers the body’s inflammatory response. This leads to an increase in blood flow to the area, which can help to bring oxygen and nutrients to the affected tissues, promoting healing and reducing inflammation.

Dry needling can also help to improve joint mobility and flexibility by releasing muscle tension and reducing pain. When muscles are tight and in pain, they tend to become less flexible and less mobile. This can lead to a loss of range of motion and an increased risk of injury. By reducing muscle tension and pain, dry needling can help to improve joint mobility and reduce the risk of injury.

In addition to these benefits, dry needling can also help to reduce nerve pain associated with knee pain. When a needle is inserted into the skin and underlying tissues, it can stimulate the nerve fibers, leading to a reduction in pain signals being sent to the brain. This can help to alleviate pain and improve overall function.

As with any medical intervention, it is important to note that dry needling is not recommended for all patients. For example, if you are pregnant, have a bleeding disorder, or have a history of allergies to metal, it is important to consult with your doctor of physical therapy before undergoing dry needling.

Can dry needle therapy help with your knee pain? Absolutely. I have helped countless people using this simple and effective dry needle technique since arriving here in Colorado Springs in 2017. If you’re wondering how dry needle therapy can become a part of your personalized, holistic rehabilitation plan of care, please reach out with any questions you have. I look forward to speaking with you.

Fortis es,
Dr. Scott A. Jones, PT
Movement Performance Coach

Are you tired of the cycle of frustration, and ready to get back to your activities?

Schedule Now