This technique is perfect for those seeking alternatives to traditional pain relief. It involves the insertion of very fine needles into specific trigger points within muscles, helping to restore the muscle to optimal and unrestricted function.
Dry needling can be used in combination with orthotics to improve muscle tightness and reduce pain. Dry needling can alter the tension in muscle fibres, increase blood flow to the muscle and reduce overall recovery time.
Some of the conditions that can benefit from dry needling include:
At Healthy Sole Podiatry in Launceston, we offer dry needling as an effective treatment to relieve pain and improve mobility in the feet and lower limbs. This technique targets muscular tension and soft tissue problems, supports recovery from injuries and enhances sports performance.
Dry needling involves inserting fine, sterile needles into specific areas of the muscles known as trigger points. These points are often tight bands of muscle fibres that can cause pain or restrict movement when stressed or overused.
The insertion of the needle stimulates what is called a Local Twitch Response or LTR. This is a quick involuntary muscle contraction that releases tension, increases blood flow, and promotes the body’s natural healing process.
The feet and lower limbs are complex structures that endure significant strain during daily activities, sports, and work. Muscle imbalances, tightness, and overuse can lead to conditions such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, and shin splints.
Dry needling treatment can effectively target these issues by:
Dry needling is a highly effective treatment option for relieving the pain and tension associated with plantar fasciitis, a common condition causing heel pain due to inflammation of the plantar fascia.
By targeting trigger points in the calf muscles and even the plantar fascia itself, dry needling helps release tightness and improve blood flow to the affected area. This process reduces pain and promotes healing by addressing the muscle imbalances and tension that often contribute to plantar fasciitis.
At Healthy Sole Podiatry in Launceston, our skilled podiatrists use dry needling as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, combining it with other therapies like stretching, orthotics and strengthening exercises. We aim to provide longer-term solutions that will allow you to return to your normal activities again, pain-free.
Dry needling at Healthy Sole Podiatry is performed by qualified podiatrists, medically-trained in this technique. The treatment is quick and on-the-whole painless, with most patients feeling only a slight discomfort when the needle is first applied.
Sessions are tailored to your specific needs, whether you’re addressing acute pain, managing a chronic condition, or optimising athletic performance.
It is important to drink plenty of water after a dry needling session. Similar to when you have a deep tissue massage, staying hydrated helps flush out toxins released during the treatment and supports muscle recovery. Proper hydration can also reduce the likelihood of post-treatment soreness or fatigue.
Dry needling is generally a safe and minimally invasive procedure, but there are a few common and mild side effects to be mindful of:
You might experience localised soreness, or a feeling similar to post-workout stiffness, in the treated area. This usually dissipates within 24-48 hours.
Bruising is rare, but in some cases small bruises may appear around the needle insertion points.
Some people feel tired after a session, which is normal and just means the body is responding to the treatment.
A brief increase in sensitivity or discomfort can occur at the treatment site as the needles are being placed.
Our Launceston clinic combines expert knowledge with personalised care to provide effective, evidence-based treatments. Dry needling is a valuable tool in managing foot and lower limb pain, helping you get back on your feet sooner.
Contact Healthy Sole Podiatry today to learn more or book your appointment today!
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