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What is Dry Needling Therapy?

Dry Needling Therapy is a technique for relieving muscle tension and pain by inserting fine, solid filiform needles into specific trigger points within the muscles. Unlike traditional acupuncture, which is based on Eastern medicine principles, dry needling is rooted in Western anatomical and neurophysiological approaches. It’s commonly used in physical therapy and dentistry to manage musculoskeletal pain.

Overview of Dry Needling

Dry needling focuses on releasing myofascial trigger points, tight knots in the muscles that can cause pain and restricted movement. Inserting needles into these points helps relieve tension, reduce pain, and improve function by stimulating the body's natural healing processes.

Benefits of Dry Needling in Dental Care

In dentistry, dry needling can be used to address issues related to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, bruxism (teeth grinding), and tension in the jaw and facial muscles. By relaxing these muscles, dry needling helps alleviate pain, improve jaw mobility, and enhance overall comfort, complementing other dental treatments.

Dry needling therapy offers several benefits for patients suffering from oral and facial pain, notably:

• Pain Relief for Jaw and Facial Muscles: Dry needling can help alleviate jaw, face, and neck pain by targeting specific muscles affected by conditions like TMJ disorders or bruxism. The therapy releases tight muscles, reducing discomfort and improving the patient's quality of life.
• Enhancing Muscle Function and Recovery: By relaxing overly tight or dysfunctional muscles, dry needling can help restore normal muscle function and reduce the likelihood of future strain. It also promotes better blood flow and healing, aiding in the recovery of muscle tissue after dental or orthodontic procedures.
• Complementing Other Dental Treatments: Dry needling can work alongside other dental treatments, such as orthodontics, TMJ therapy, and restorative dentistry, by improving muscle relaxation and reducing pain during and after these procedures. It offers a holistic approach to managing dental-related musculoskeletal issues.

What to Expect During a Dry Needling Session

Understanding what to expect during a dry needling session can help patients feel more comfortable and prepared for the treatment.

Preparation and Consultation

Before the session, your therapist will assess your medical history and any specific areas of discomfort. This consultation helps pinpoint the exact muscles and areas that need treatment, ensuring the therapy is targeted and effective.

The Dry Needling Procedure

During the procedure, thin, sterile needles are inserted into trigger points within the muscles. There may be mild discomfort or a twitching sensation as the needle stimulates the muscle. The duration of the needling session varies depending on the severity of the issue and the number of areas being treated.

Aftercare and Results

Post-treatment, patients might experience some soreness, similar to muscle soreness after exercise, but this usually subsides within a day or two. Patients should avoid strenuous activities and follow aftercare recommendations from their practitioner. The results of dry needling include reduced pain, improved muscle function, and enhanced mobility, which can be felt immediately or develop over a few sessions.

What is The Difference Between Dry Needling and Acupuncture

The key difference between dry needling and acupuncture is their origins and purposes. Acupuncture is part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and is based on balancing the body's energy (Qi) by targeting specific meridian points. In contrast, dry needling is based on modern anatomy and targets muscle trigger points for pain relief and musculoskeletal dysfunction.

At Gold Coast Holistic Dental Care, we’re more than just a dentist. We prioritise your overall health and wellness and offer a range of services to align with a holistic lifestyle.

If you’re looking to start your journey to a healthier you, call our team today to schedule an appointment. We treat your whole body - not just your teeth.