Two medical professionals smiling with patient in bed

Physical Therapy

 

Physical Therapists evaluate and treat people with issues that impair their ability to walk, run, play sports, move and function. PT’s can treat problems of the joints, muscles, nerves, balance, and core. The Physical Therapist may provide the client with adaptive equipment that will help them participate more fully in life. Patients will learn techniques and exercises that will teach them how to take care of themselves, return to school, work, or sports, and allow them to function at the highest possible level. Treatments may include exercise, heat/cold/electrical modalities, taping or bracing, manual therapy, ambulation and balance training. Physical therapists also teach prevention techniques.

 

Dry Needling

What is Dry Needling and how will it work?

Dry needling is a form of physical therapy for the treatment of musculoskeletal and neuromuscular conditions. Consult your therapist before considering treatment.

Integrative Dry Needling is not acupuncture. It is based on that we know about bones, muscles, and nerves. A very fine needle is inserted below the skin, and into the deeper tissues that are causing the pain. This can be done with or without electric stimulation. Dry Needling works by breaking up shortened tissues, reducing messages from the nervous system, calming down the area and reducing the pain. This will help the body heal itself.

Not all medical or physical therapy professionals are trained to perform the Integrative Dry Needling treatment technique. The physical therapist (s) at Newberry Hospital have advanced training and have been certified in this treatment.

What can be treated and what should I expect?

Dry Needling uses sterile, disposable needles that are very fine and flexible. The can be pushed through the skin rather than cutting the skin. A local twitch response to the muscle may be felt and many patients describe this twitch response as a little electric shock, cramp or an ache.

After Dry Needling your pain may vary. Soreness and achiness are common, and some people have immediate relief from pain and an increase in motion.

The soreness, if present, will last only 1-2 days. Heat and gentle massage can help the soreness. Mild bruising at the needling sites is normal and skin discoloration may last several days after the procedure. Ice application can help with bruising.

It is uncommon but possible that the treatment of Dry Needling may temporarily increase your symptoms. This should not last more than 1-2 days. Let your therapist know if symptoms get worse or continue.

Dry Needling can treat:

  • Neck pain
  • Back pain
  • Shoulder pain
  • Tennis elbow
  • Carpal Tunnel
  • Migraines and tension-type headaches
  • Back and leg pain (sciatica)

You will continue to receive other therapy approaches along with the Integrative Dry Needling:

  • Manuel therapy
  • Exercise
  • Stabilization
  • Posture training

Before Treatment:

  • Do not eat at least 30 minutes prior to treatment
  • Drink a lot of water and empty your bladder prior to treatment
  • Wear loose fitting clothing or shorts

After Treatment:

  • Increase your water intake
  • Apply heat or ice to treated area
  • Gentle stretches and/or modified activities

(Your therapist will discuss post-treatment recommendations in more detail following your procedure)

 

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