This is also known as “myofascial trigger point needling” which is an alternative medicine technique adapted from acupuncture. Pain caused by trigger points is due to hypoxia and decreased blood flow within the trigger point. This leads to a decreased pH which activates the muscle nociceptors to restore homeostasis. This causes peripheral sensitization. Trigger points are also involved in central sensitization. The mechanism remains unclear, but trigger points maintain nociceptive input into the dorsal horn and therefore contribute to central sensitization.

In the treatment of trigger points for persons with myofascial pain syndrome, dry needling is an invasive procedure in which a filiform needle is inserted into the skin and muscle directly at a myofascial trigger point. A myofascial trigger point consists of multiple, hyperirritable contraction knots related to the production and maintenance of the pain cycle; essentially, myofascial trigger points will generate much local pain upon stimulation or irritation. There are many instances during which dry needling CAN NOT be used and your physiotherapist is well trained and experienced to avoid such situations. Additionally, you MUST always give consent prior to dry needling and it is your physiotherapist’s responsibility to inform you the pros and cons of the technique prior to commencement.