Dry Needling: A Drug-Free Solution for Muscle Pain
Stubborn muscle pains in the neck, back and shoulder area, also known as “earache” in daily life, are often at the root of myofascial trigger points lies. These painful knots cause the muscles to remain permanently tense and limit mobility. Dry Needling, is a drug-free and scientifically based modern physical therapy method that quickly relieves pain by targeting these specific trigger points.
What is Dry Needling and How it differs from Acupuncture
Although dry needling is often confused with acupuncture, it is completely different in both philosophy and application technique. While acupuncture targets energy meridians based on Traditional Chinese Medicine, dry needling is based on Western medicine and anatomical principles. This method directly targets the anatomical trigger point inside the problematic muscle.
The treatment is done with very thin, sterile, disposable needles that are not injected with any medication or solution (this is why it is called “dry”).
How does the treatment work?
The main goal of dry needling therapy is to release overly tense and shortened muscle fibers (trigger points) within the muscle. The specialist physiotherapist guides the needle precisely into the center of this trigger point. When the needle reaches the trigger point “local twitch response” called a small, involuntary contraction.
This twitch response is an indication that the treatment has been successful. Thanks to this response:
- Muscle spasm is instantly resolved.
- Neural activity in the muscle returns to normal.
- Blood circulation in the area (revascularization) increases.
- The body's own painkiller chemicals (endorphins) are released.
In Which Diseases Is Dry Needling Used?
Dry needling is used safely for many musculoskeletal problems because it has almost no side effects. The main areas of use are:
Myofascial Pain Syndrome (Muscle Rheumatism)
Muscle spasms due to lumbar and cervical hernia
Fibromyalgia
Severe headaches (especially tension-type)
Frozen shoulder syndrome
Tennis elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
Back and ear pain
Chronic pain due to posture disorders
Often combined with manual therapy and exercise programs, dry needling quickly breaks the pain cycle, significantly shortening the healing process.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, this is the most frequently confused issue.
Acupuncture It is based on the philosophy of Traditional Chinese Medicine and aims to regulate the flow of energy (meridians) in the body.
Dry Needling It is based entirely on the principles of Western medicine and modern anatomy. It directly targets tense, painful and shortened "trigger points" in the muscle.
The needles used during the procedure are much thinner than normal injection needles (usually the thickness of a hair). The insertion of the needle into the skin is usually not felt. When the needle reaches the trigger point (spasm) in the muscle, the patient is expected to feel a small, involuntary muscle firing, called a "local twitch response". This firing sensation indicates that the treatment has been successful and can be described as a mild sensation of "sweet pain" or pressure. This sensation is momentary and is not considered a painful procedure.
After the treatment, a slight "shooting pain", fatigue or tenderness in the muscles where the needle was applied It's normal. This is a natural response of the muscles to the treatment and usually subsides spontaneously within 24 to 48 hours. You can liken this sensation to muscle soreness after an intense sports workout.
When dry needling is applied by specialized and trained physiotherapists very safe is a method. Since no medication is administered, there is no risk of allergic reaction. The most common side effect is small, temporary bruising at the needle entry sites or the temporary muscle tenderness mentioned above.
Although it is generally very safe, in some cases it is not recommended:
Needle phobics.
An active infection or open wound in the area to be treated.
People who take blood thinners or have a clotting disorder (extensive evaluation required).
In the first trimester of pregnancy (especially around the abdomen and waist).
Answer. Ozone therapy can be applied to healthy individuals not only in cases of disease, but also to maintain general health, strengthen the immune system, increase energy levels and for "anti-aging" purposes.