Dry Needling Perth, Scarborough
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What is Dry Needling?
Also known as intramuscular stimulation, this is a technique used by trained podiatrists and physiotherapists to address muscular pain, muscle function, and range of motion, while potentially stimulating new cell growth.
It involves fine acupuncture needles (about 0.25mm in diameter) being inserted into the affected muscle tissue. These thin needles don’t release any fluid (hence why it’s known as ‘dry’ needling). They’re left in the skin for a short amount of time before being gently removed.
How Does Dry Needling Work?
Sometimes, our muscles become so tight that they can’t be released with manual manipulation or hands-on physiotherapy alone. Dry needling may be a potential solution in these situations.
The insertion of needles seems to inhibit or reduce pain signals to our brains. As such, using dry needling near a muscle (or myofascial) trigger point may assist in reducing nerve sensitivity and restoring normal muscle function. It may also lead to a small increase in blood flow to the affected area, which is believed to aid in healing.
How Does Dry Needling Differ from Acupuncture?
While many assume that acupuncture and dry needling are the same, the theory behind each treatment is actually very different.
Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that has been in use for more than 2000 years. It’s a holistic approach that attempts to stimulate and enhance the body’s natural healing power. The needles are inserted into specific spots around the body to correct the flow of ‘chi’ and bring it back into balance.
While it is a derivative of acupuncture, dry needling is a much newer, Western technique that sees acupuncture needles inserted directly into the affected muscle in an effort to reduce spasms and provide pain relief.
Feeling like your daily life is hampered by muscle pain? Give dry needling a try today!
How May Podiatry Patients Benefit from Dry Needling?
Patients who are experiencing foot or ankle pain may benefit from dry needling in many ways:
- Reduction in muscle tension, as foot and ankle pain is often associated with tight muscles and trigger points in the lower leg.
- Improved blood flow, which may bring more oxygen and nutrients to the affected area to promote recovery.
- Decrease in inflammation, which may assist in reducing any chronic inflammation that contributes to your pain.
- Enhanced range of motion, as foot and ankle pain may cause stiffness and discomfort that limits movement.
- Pain management, as it interacts with our nervous system, which may help to modulate pain and provide relief from chronic conditions.
- Supports rehabilitation, which may help patients to recover more quickly from injury.
- Prevents the recurrence of pain or injury, as the underlying muscle imbalances are addressed.
What Conditions Can Dry Needling Treat?
Podiatrists have successfully used dry needling to treat a range of conditions, including:
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Muscle sprains
- Shin splints
- Joint dysfunction
- Achilles tendonitis
- Neuropathy
- Forefoot pain (ie Morton’s Neuroma)
- Arthritis
Your Dry Needling Questions Answered
- Can I use dry needling with other forms of treatment?
Yes, dry needling is often paired with other treatment methods (such as physiotherapy, massage, and prescribed exercises) to form a well-rounded treatment plan. This should be discussed with your medical team to ensure that the treatments will work cohesively.
- How many sessions will I need to see results?
Most patients only need one or two sessions to see results, whereas others may need multiple sessions – it all depends on the nature of your injury or condition and how your body responds to treatment. In some cases, our patients report improvement after a single dry needling session.
- Are there any side effects or risks to dry needling?
While dry needling is a very safe procedure, as with any medical treatment, there are some potential risks to be aware of. Minor side effects may include localised bruising and tenderness post treatment and a mild, dull ache during treatment that may last up to 24 hours.
- Is dry needling safe?
Dry needling is seen to be safe when it is performed by a qualified podiatrist or physiotherapist. All needles are single-use, sterile, and made from high quality surgical steel. Scared of needles? No need to worry – our podiatrists will work with you to ensure that your treatment is as comfortable as possible.
- Does dry needling hurt?
While dry needling therapy is typically pain-free for most people, some are known to experience mild discomfort when the muscle twitches (or contracts) during treatment. This discomfort is generally quite minimal and only lasts a few seconds. Also, be aware that some areas are more sensitive than others.
Why Doubleview Podiatry?
Convenient LocationOur well-placed clinic is just a stone’s throw from Scarborough Beach, ensuring easy access for patients in Perth’s northern and western suburbs. |
Experienced TeamStephen Wisken, owner and principal podiatrist, brings more than 30 years of experience to the table, so you can rest assured that your feet are in good hands. |
Warm and WelcomingWe are committed to providing a welcoming environment for our patients. |
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What to Expect at Your First Dry Needling Perth Appointment
At your first appointment, your podiatrist will discuss how the treatment works and answer any questions you have. There’s no such thing as a silly question, so feel free to ask away!
The podiatrist will sterilise the area to be treated, then they’ll begin inserting the needles into the affected tissue. The amount of time the needles are left in the skin will vary from patient to patient, but the whole procedure usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.
It’s a good idea to wear loose, comfortable bottoms and shoes to ensure that your podiatrist is best able to access the area easily and that you will be comfortable once the treatment is over.
Ensure an Accurate Assessment with Doubleview Podiatry
Don’t let your life be hampered by muscle pain, tightness, or tension any longer – dry needling may be the answer you’ve been searching for. The highly trained podiatrists at Doubleview Podiatry aim to get you back on your feet pain-free as quickly and safely as possible. Give us a call today and learn more about how dry needling may benefit you.