Intramuscular Manual Therapy for Myofascial Dysfunction
Dry needling is a treatment modality involving the insertion of a thin filament needle (approximately the thickness of a hair) into specific points in muscles, tendons, or ligaments. As the name suggests, no substance is released from the needle—the needle insertion itself creates the therapeutic effect.
This technique is provided by Travis Wilkie, our osteopathic practitioner qualified in dry needling, as part of comprehensive manual therapy treatment.
How Dry Needling Works
Dry needling influences soft tissue structures in two distinct ways:
For Underactive Muscles (Inhibited Contraction):
Needle insertion into a specific point elicits a twitch response that helps activate the muscle and restore normal contractile function.
For Overactive Muscles (Hypertonicity or Dysfunction):
Needle insertion reduces overactivity, releases trigger points, and helps restore normal tissue function and pain-free movement.
Dry Needling vs. Acupuncture
While both modalities use similar filament needles, the approaches are fundamentally different:
Acupuncture is based on Traditional Chinese Medicine. Needles are inserted along ancient meridian lines to restore and balance energy flow (Qi) in the body. It treats chronic pain, digestive concerns, reproductive problems, and stress-related issues. Needles typically remain in place for 20-30 minutes.
Dry Needling is based on Western medicine—focused on anatomy, neurology, and muscle physiology. Needles are inserted into specific dysfunctional points in tissue based on clinical assessment. Needles typically remain for 30-40 seconds (sometimes longer if required).
Dry needling is muscular and neurological. Acupuncture is energetic and systemic.
Conditions Treated with Dry Needling
- Muscle strains
- Repetitive stress injuries
- Tendon dysfunctions
- Headaches and migraines
- Chronic pain
- General muscle tightness and trigger points
- Myofascial pain syndromes
Treatment Approach
Dry needling is rarely used in isolation. Best results occur when used as an adjunctive technique alongside other manual therapy methods such as joint articulation, muscle energy techniques, joint manipulation, and soft tissue release.
Your osteopath will assess your condition during your session and determine if dry needling is appropriate for your clinical presentation.
Treatment Expectations
The needle insertion is brief. You may feel a twitch response when treating overactive muscles—this indicates the tissue is releasing. Treatment is quick, with needles typically removed within 30-40 seconds.
Provided by Qualified Practitioner
Dry needling at Beachealth is performed by Travis Wilkie, an Osteopathic Manual Practitioner qualified in this technique, as part of comprehensive treatment plans.
Book Your Appointment
To find out more: Call (416) 546-4887 or email [email protected]
To book an appointment: Visit beachealth.janeapp.com
Dry Needling at Beachealth | Provided by Osteopathic Manual Practitioner in The Beaches, East Toronto