What is Trigger Point Dry Needling Acupuncture?

Posted by: Johnathan

Trigger Point Dry Needling Acupuncture (TrPDNA) is a technique of resolving pain and compromised function by needling specific bands of tissue in muscle which are in a state of hyper-engagement. These are the “knots” in your muscles that ache when you press on them.
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These taut bands contain what are called "trigger points" which are areas in the muscle with restricted blood flow, lower oxygen saturation, and a lower (i.e., more acidic) pH. These circumstances lead to neurological responses leading to discomfort and altered function of the muscle.
 
How is TrPDNA different from other traditional acupuncture styles?
More traditional channel-based acupuncture treats based on channel theory. The practical effect of this is that needles are placed in channel points along one or more of the 14 channels running through the torso, arms, and legs.
 
We at Foster Wellness often incorporate both styles of acupuncture within the same treatment. Channel-based acupuncture is used initially to open the channels such that when we perform the local trigger point needling the energy (qi) from the muscle has somewhere to go and the overall effect can be better achieved than local dry needling alone.
 
Does TrPDNA hurt?
TrPDNA is definitely “sensationful.” Whereas the Foster Wellness style of channel-based acupuncture is often sensation-free, dry needling results in strong sensation, usually at the site of the muscle being treated, but the sensation can sometimes refer to other areas of the body. For example, needling the back of the shoulder can often refer to the front. TrPDNA is similar to deep tissue massage, where the pressure is strong but feels safe and effective. We practice dry needling in the tradition of leaders such as Janet Travell and Jan Dommerholt.
 
How can TrPDNA help you?
We can treat almost any pain caused by muscle tension, including postsurgical tension (such as in the leg after knee replacement surgery), adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder), back, neck, or foot pain due to muscle tension. Even if your muscle pain is secondary to another condition, this style of acupuncture could help reduce your discomfort.