Electric Dry Needling

In the realm of pain management and physical therapy, new and innovative techniques are continually emerging to provide effective relief to those suffering from various musculoskeletal issues. Although dry needling is not a new technique, it is being utilized more and more in the rehab world. The combination of Electrical Stimulation (E-STIM) and Dry Needling is a therapeutic intervention many experts are implementing into their treatment today. Explore what electric dry needling is, how it works, and the many benefits it offers for pain management and overall well-being.

Understanding Electric Dry Needling:

Electric Dry Needling is an advanced therapeutic technique that combines the principles of traditional dry needling with the application of electrical stimulation. (1) Dry needling involves the insertion of thin, sterile needles into specific trigger points or muscle knots to alleviate pain and improve muscle function. (2)

How Does Electric Dry Needling Work?

The procedure starts with a trained and experienced therapist identifying the precise trigger points or areas of muscle tension that require attention. Fine needles, similar to those used in acupuncture, are then inserted into these targeted areas. Once the needles are in place, a low-frequency electrical current is applied through the needles. This electrical stimulation enhances the therapeutic effects of dry needling in several ways:

• Increased Blood Flow

• Pain Modulation

• Muscle Relaxation

• Enhanced Healing

Benefits of Electric Dry Needling:

• Effective Pain Management

• Improved Muscle Function

• Faster Recovery

• Non-Invasive

• Customized Treatment

(1,2)

At Athletes’ Edge Physical Therapy, we use dry needling and electric dry needling for many common conditions including, but not limited to, low back pain, sciatica, tennis and golfer’s elbow, calf injuries, tendinitis / tendinopathy, neck pain, hip pain, ect.

Electric Dry Needling is a cutting-edge pain management technique that offers a combination of dry needling's precision with the added benefits of electrical stimulation. It is a non-invasive, effective treatment option for various musculoskeletal issues, providing relief from pain, improved muscle function, and faster recovery times. If you're seeking an innovative approach to address chronic pain or enhance your physical well-being, Electric Dry Needling may be the solution you've been looking for. Consult with a qualified therapist to explore how this therapy can benefit you and help you regain your quality of life.

References:

1. Lara-Palomo IC, Antequera-Soler E, Fernández-Sánchez M, Castro-Sánchez AM, García-López H. Electrical dry needling versus a non-invasive multicomponent intervention in the treatment of myofascial trigger points in patients with chronic low back pain: A randomised clinical trial. Clinical Rehabilitation. 2023;0(0). doi:10.1177/02692155231201589

2. Dunning J, Butts R, Young I, Mourad F, Galante V, Bliton P, Tanner M, Fernández-de-Las-Peñas C. Periosteal Electrical Dry Needling as an Adjunct to Exercise and Manual Therapy for Knee Osteoarthritis: A Multicenter Randomized Clinical Trial. Clin J Pain. 2018 Dec;34(12):1149-1158. doi: 10.1097/AJP.0000000000000634. PMID: 29864043; PMCID: PMC6250299.