NEUROMUSCULAR THERAPY

What is Dry Needling? Dry needling is the insertion of a fine filament needle directly into myofascial (muscular) trigger points. Trigger points are composed of multiple tight contraction knots within the muscle which cause and contribute to pain within the body. Research studies have shown that inserting such needles into trigger points causes biochemical changes within the body, which help reduce pain. Is Dry Needling the same as acupuncture? Although Dry Needling uses the same needles as acupuncture, it is not the same technique. Dry Needling is strictly based upon Western medicine principles of treating myofascial trigger points, which are different to traditional acupuncture points. Is it painful? The initial insertion of the needle does not usually cause any discomfort. The local twitch response can cause a brief painful reaction – some patients describe this as an electric shock or a cramping sensation. It is important to remember that the therapeutic effect only occurs by eliciting the twitch response and, therefore, it is the desirable reaction. Are there any side effects/How quickly will it work? It is common to feel some soreness post treatment as with many manual therapy techniques, however, once this has subsided there should be an improvement in the initial symptoms. It may take several sessions to resolve the symptoms fully as the biochemical and mechanical changes occur. Typically, soreness can last anywhere between 1 hour and 2 days post treatment. What can I do after the treatment? Use heat and/or ice over the area after Dry Needling to help alleviate post treatment soreness and you may need to rest from all exercise or activity for a day or 2 afterwards. Drink plenty of water and get a good nights sleep. Which conditions can be treated with Dry Needling? Dry needling can be used to treat a variety of musculoskeletal problems.

What is Dry Cupping Therapy? Cupping therapy is a form of therapy where suction cups are placed around various parts of the body. The main principle behind cupping is that the suction created encourages blood and lymph flow to promote healing. People get it for many purposes, including to help with pain, inflammation, blood flow, relaxation and well-being, and as a type of deep-tissue massage. Is it painful? Dry cupping therapy isn’t excessively painful, you might feel mild discomfort throughout the therapy. In areas of severe fascia tightness there may be greater discomfort. What are the benefits of Dry Cupping Therapy? There are many benefits of Dry Cupping Therapy such as: •Improves lymphatic drainage •Speeds up toxin removal •Improves circulation •Speeds up tissue metabolism •Releases trigger points, spasm, adhesions and fascial tightness •Helps migraines and tension headaches Are there any side effects/adverse reactions? Yes, some of the possible side effects/adverse reactions include: •Cup Kiss (can last up to 10+ days) •Tenderness •Redness •Itching •Decreased BP •Headaches •Tiredness/fatigue •Excess urination

What is Deep Tissue Massage? Deep tissue massage works to lengthen and relax deep tissue. This type of massage may help manage pain and increase a person’s range of motion. Deep tissue massage may be a suitable option to treat sports injuries or chronic back pain. The technique is sometimes considered as a type of therapeutic massage. What are the benefits of Deep Tissue Massage? Deep tissue massage can provide many benefits for various conditions, including injury, chronic pain, and certain diseases. Some benefits include: •relieve pain and stiffness •improve circulation to reduce swelling or buildup of fluid around the injury •speed up healing of muscle strains and sprains •restore range of motion •aids recovery after injury