Dry Needling at Norton Physical Therapy and Performance in Georgetown of Washington DC

What is Dry Needling?

Dry needling is a safe and effective technique used to treat musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. Unlike acupuncture, which is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine and focuses on restoring the flow of energy (Qi) along meridians, dry needling targets trigger points within muscles, tendons, ligaments, and connective tissues.

How Does it Work?

During a dry needling session, fine needles are inserted into specific trigger points or "knots" in the muscles. These trigger points are often the source of pain, tightness, and restricted movement. The insertion of the needle stimulates the trigger point, causing it to relax and release tension. This process promotes increased blood flow to the area, which helps to reduce inflammation and promote healing.

What Conditions Can Dry Needling Help With?

Dry needling can be beneficial for a wide range of acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions, including:

• Muscle tightness and spasms

• Neck and back pain

• Shoulder impingement syndrome

• Tennis elbow and golfer's elbow

• Runner’s Knee

• Achilles Tendonitis

• Sciatica

• Plantar fasciitis

• Hip and knee pain

• Headaches and migraines

• Sports injuries

• Calf Strains

• Patellofemoral Pain

• Hamstring Strains

Why Choose Norton Physical Therapy for Dry Needling?

At Norton Physical Therapy our highly trained and experienced therapists specialize in dry needling techniques. We take a personalized approach to each patient, carefully assessing their condition and developing a tailored treatment plan to address their specific needs and goals.

How Does Electrical Stimulation Complement Dry Needling?

At Norton Physical Therapy and Performance in Georgetown of Washington DC, we are committed to staying at the forefront of innovative therapies to provide our patients with the highest quality care. In line with this commitment, we combine the power of dry needling with electrical stimulation to enhance effectiveness and accelerate healing. When used in conjunction with dry needling, electrical stimulation can amplify the therapeutic effects of the treatment in several ways:

1. Increased Muscle Relaxation: Electrical stimulation helps to further relax muscles and reduce muscle tension, making it easier to access and treat trigger points with dry needling.

2. Enhanced Pain Relief: The electrical impulses produced during stimulation can disrupt pain signals sent to the brain, providing immediate relief and improving patient comfort during the dry needling procedure.

3. Improved Blood Circulation: Electrical stimulation promotes vasodilation, leading to increased blood flow to the treated area. This enhanced circulation delivers oxygen and nutrients to the tissues, facilitating the healing process.

4. Muscle Re-Education: By stimulating targeted muscles, electrical stimulation can help improve muscle function and restore proper movement patterns, complementing the neuromuscular re-education aspect of dry needling.

What to Expect During a Session

During your dry needling session with electrical stimulation at Norton Physical Therapy and Performance in Georgetown of Washington DC, you can expect the following:

• Comprehensive Evaluation: Our skilled therapists will conduct a thorough assessment to identify your specific needs and determine the most appropriate treatment plan.

• Dry Needling Technique: Fine needles will be inserted into the identified trigger points or areas of pain and dysfunction. Once the needles are in place, electrical stimulation will be applied through the electrodes to enhance the therapeutic effects of the treatment.

• Comfort and Safety: Throughout the session, our therapists will ensure your comfort and safety, adjusting the intensity of the electrical stimulation as needed to suit your tolerance level.

• Post-Treatment Care: After the session, you may experience immediate relief or some mild soreness, which is normal. Any Soreness is typically gone in 24 to 48 hours. Our team will provide you with guidance on post-treatment care and any additional exercises or activities to support your recovery.

Experience the Benefits of Combined Therapy

By combining dry needling with electrical stimulation, we aim to maximize the effectiveness of your treatment and help you achieve optimal results in a shorter period. If you're seeking relief from musculoskeletal pain or dysfunction, contact Norton Physical Therapy and Performance in Georgetown of Washington DC today to schedule your appointment and experience the benefits of our integrated approach to healing.