Thanks to advancements in sports science, there are a variety of effective techniques that work for athletes battling muscle pain.
One of these is dry needling, which shares some similarities with acupuncture, believed to have originated around 100 BC in China.
Dry needling evolved from various bodies of research in Western medicine, notably a study on trigger points by former White House physician and traditional and alternative medicine specialist Dr Janet Travell.
Trigger points are tight bands of muscle or knots that cause pain and discomfort.
Dry needling developed with a focus on musculoskeletal and pain science following Western anatomical and physiological principles, rather than traditional Chinese acupuncture in which needles are inserted into specific points on the body (called meridians) to balance the flow of energy or "Qi."
According to Ultra Sports Clinic senior sports physiotherapist Harriet MacRae, dry needling involves inserting very thin needles into trigger points, with the intention of releasing tension, improving blood flow, and reducing pain in the affected areas.
“Despite using needles, dry needling is considered ‘dry’ because no medication is injected. It offers a targeted, evidence-based option for relieving muscle pain, distinct from more traditional therapies like acupuncture,” Harriet says.
“Several potential benefits are offered, including pain relief by targeting and releasing tight muscles that can reduce pain and tension, as well as improving muscle function by helping to restore normal movement, which can be impaired by tight knots or spasms.”
Enhanced rehabilitation, where stimulating blood flow and nerve communication can promote healing in injured areas, and increased range of motion, where joint flexibility and movement are improved, are further advantages.
Dry needling is commonly used to treat a variety of musculoskeletal conditions, including chronic and acute muscle pain (e.g. back, neck, or shoulder pain); myofascial pain syndrome (trigger points causing referred pain); tension headaches; sports injuries like muscle strains; Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain in the jaw; plantar fasciitis and other foot pain; and postural issues causing muscle stiffness or discomfort.
Harriet says dry needling has gained widespread use among physical therapists, chiropractors, and other healthcare professionals in recent decades, especially for sports injuries and chronic pain management.
“Since no medication or substance is injected, it is seen as a minimally invasive, drug-free option for pain relief. However, while many people feel relief after a session, it’s common to experience temporary muscle soreness at the needle sites, similar to the feeling after a deep-tissue massage.”
She adds dry needling is not recommended for everyone.
“Certain populations, such as those with needle phobia, blood clotting disorders, or pregnancy (depending on the area), may not be suitable candidates.”
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