Trigger Point Dry Needling (TDN) is a therapeutic technique that decreases musculoskeletal pain through targeting myofascial trigger points. Myofascial trigger points are areas in skeletal muscle that are tender and twitch when stimulated. Dry needling is often used in the context of musculoskeletal conditions, particularly those associated with myofascial pain syndrome. Here’s how it works:

Identifying Trigger Points: Myofascial trigger points are tight knots or bands of muscle fibers that can develop within a muscle. These trigger points can be a source of pain, and they often refer pain to other areas of the body. The first step in TDN is to identify these trigger points through a physical examination and assessment of the patient’s symptoms.

Needling: Once trigger points are identified, a practitioner inserts a thin, solid filament needle, into the trigger point. The needle is inserted directly into the muscle, and this can cause a “twitch response,” which is a brief involuntary contraction of the muscle. This twitch response is often a sign that the trigger point is being effectively treated.

Muscle Release: The needling process helps to release the tension in the trigger point, which can reduce muscle pain, improve range of motion, and promote healing. It is thought to work by several mechanisms, including interrupting the motor end plate signals and normalizing tone, increasing blood flow, and releasing endorphins.

TDN should be performed by a trained and qualified healthcare provider, as there are potential risks and complications associated with any invasive procedure. Patients may experience soreness or bruising after the procedure. It is also not the same as acupuncture, although it uses similar needles, as the underlying principles and objectives are different.