Dry Needles For My Neck Pain

Dry Needles For Muscle Pain

Photo by Katherine Hanlon

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By Dr Khong Lamvichit  July 24, 2024 5min

Dry needling is an increasingly popular therapeutic technique used by physical therapists and other healthcare professionals to treat musculoskeletal pain, including neck muscle pain. This technique involves the insertion of thin, filiform needles into specific points on the body, known as trigger points, to relieve pain and improve function. Here's how dry needling helps with neck muscle pain:

Trigger Point Deactivation

**Trigger points** are hyperirritable spots in the skeletal muscle that are associated with palpable nodules in taut bands of muscle fibers. These points can cause localized pain or refer pain to other areas of the body. In the case of neck pain, trigger points in muscles such as the upper trapezius, levator scapulae, and sternocleidomastoid can contribute to discomfort and restricted movement. 

Dry needling aims to deactivate these trigger points. When the needle is inserted into a trigger point, it creates a localized twitch response, which is an involuntary contraction of the muscle. This response helps to release the tightness and reduce the irritation in the muscle fibers, leading to pain relief.

Reduction of Muscle Tension and Spasm

By targeting trigger points, dry needling helps to alleviate muscle tension and spasms. The mechanical action of the needle disrupts the dysfunctional motor end plates (neuromuscular junctions), which can lead to a reduction in muscle tightness. As the tension decreases, the muscle can relax, which helps to relieve pain and improve the range of motion in the neck.

Enhancement of Blood Flow

The insertion of needles into the affected muscles can stimulate blood flow to the area. Improved circulation aids in the healing process by bringing oxygen and nutrients to the tissues and removing metabolic waste products. Enhanced blood flow also helps to reduce inflammation, which can contribute to pain reduction and faster recovery.

Neurophysiological Effects

Dry needling may also produce neurophysiological effects that contribute to pain relief. The insertion of needles can stimulate the release of endogenous opioids (natural pain-relieving chemicals produced by the body) and other neurotransmitters that modulate pain perception. Additionally, the mechanical stimulation of the needle may activate descending inhibitory pathways in the central nervous system, which can help to decrease the sensation of pain.

Reduction of Central Sensitization

Chronic neck pain can lead to central sensitization, a condition where the central nervous system becomes hypersensitive to pain stimuli. Dry needling can help to reduce central sensitization by disrupting the ongoing input from peripheral nociceptors (pain receptors) and by normalizing the communication between the peripheral and central nervous systems. This can result in a decreased perception of pain and an improved pain threshold.

Improving Function and Mobility

By alleviating pain, reducing muscle tension, and improving circulation, dry needling can enhance overall function and mobility. Patients often experience an increased range of motion in their neck and shoulders, which can improve their ability to perform daily activities and reduce the risk of further injury.

Combining Dry Needling with Other Therapies

Dry needling is often used in conjunction with other therapeutic modalities, such as physical therapy exercises, manual therapy, and stretching. This multimodal approach can provide more comprehensive and longer-lasting relief from neck muscle pain. For example, after dry needling releases the trigger points, specific exercises can help to strengthen the muscles and improve posture, further preventing the recurrence of pain.

Conclusion

Dry needling is a valuable tool in the management of neck muscle pain. By deactivating trigger points, reducing muscle tension and spasms, enhancing blood flow, and producing neurophysiological effects, dry needling can effectively alleviate pain and improve function. When integrated into a comprehensive treatment plan, dry needling can help patients achieve lasting relief from neck muscle pain and enhance their overall quality of life.