Dry Needle Therapy | Simply Move Chiropractic

Trigger Point Therapy vs Dry Needle Therapy vs Trigger Point Injections: Which Is Right for You?

Natalie Otoya — Thu, 12 Dec 2024 17:21:04 +0000

As a chiropractor serving Charlotte, NC, I’m often asked about different approaches to addressing trigger points and muscle pain. Whether it’s tension in the shoulders, persistent back pain, or recurring headaches, understanding your treatment options can make a big difference. Today, I want to discuss three common methods: trigger point therapy, dry needle therapy, and trigger point injections.

What Are Trigger Points?

Trigger points are sensitive knots in your muscles that form when muscle fibers tighten and fail to release. These points can cause local pain or refer pain to other areas. For instance, a trigger point in the neck might cause headaches. Targeting these trigger points effectively requires tailored treatment.

Trigger Point Therapy

Trigger point therapy involves applying sustained manual pressure directly to the sensitive knots in your muscles. This technique targets the tight, hyper-irritable areas causing local or referred pain, aiming to release the tension, increase blood flow, and restore normal muscle function. By focusing on these specific points, the therapy helps reduce pain and improve mobility.

In my office, I use trigger point therapy when needed, particularly for patients with mild to moderate pain or stress-related muscle tightness. However, I often find that Active Release Technique (ART) is more effective for most of my patients. ART allows me to combine precise pressure with specific movements, which helps release the trigger point while addressing the surrounding tissue’s function. That said, when a patient’s needs call for it, I turn to trigger point therapy as a valuable tool in achieving relief and promoting long-term recovery.

Dry Needle Therapy as Trigger Point Therapy

Dry needle therapy can also be used to treat trigger points, offering a more targeted approach to releasing stubborn knots. By inserting a thin, filiform needle directly into the trigger point, the therapy stimulates the muscle to release tension and reset to its normal state.

When I use dry needling as part of trigger point therapy, I often see what’s called a “local twitch response.” This is a quick contraction of the muscle, signaling that the trigger point is releasing. This response helps reduce pain, improve mobility, and increase blood flow to the affected area, which promotes healing.

Dry needling can be particularly effective for trigger points that are deeply embedded in muscle tissue or that don’t respond well to manual pressure. While the idea of needles may sound intimidating, the process is minimally invasive, and most patients feel little more than a slight pinch during treatment.

Trigger Point Injections

Trigger point injections involve a healthcare provider injecting a small amount of anesthetic or corticosteroid directly into the trigger point. This treatment is typically used for severe pain or cases that haven’t responded to other therapies.

The injection works to numb the area, reduce inflammation, and relax the muscle fibers. While injections can provide fast relief, they are more invasive and carry risks such as infection, bruising, or allergic reactions.

For patients in Charlotte, NC, I often recommend starting with less invasive options like manual therapy or dry needling before considering injections. However, for some individuals with debilitating pain, trigger point injections may offer the quick relief they need to begin a more comprehensive treatment plan.

Which Treatment Is Right for You?

The right choice depends on your specific condition, pain level, and treatment goals. Here’s a quick comparison:

• Trigger Point Therapy: Ideal for mild to moderate pain, stress-related tension, and those seeking a hands-on, natural approach.

• Dry Needle Therapy: Effective for chronic pain, sports injuries, and stubborn trigger points that don’t respond to manual therapy.

• Trigger Point Injections: Best for severe pain or cases where other methods haven’t provided sufficient relief.

Conclusion

At Simply Move Chiropractic, I’m committed to helping you find the most effective solution for your pain. If you’re unsure which option is right for you, I’d love to help you explore your choices. Together, we can develop a treatment plan that meets your needs and gets you back to doing what you love.

If you’re in Charlotte, NC, and want to learn more, schedule a consultation today. Let’s take the first step toward relieving your pain and improving your quality of life.

Relieving TMJ Pain with Dry Needling: A Research-Backed Approach to Restoring Jaw Function

Natalie Otoya — Tue, 12 Nov 2024 01:54:25 +0000

In my practice in Charlotte, I often see patients suffering from TMJ pain, a condition that can disrupt not only jaw function but also daily life, causing discomfort while eating, speaking, or even simply resting. One of the therapies I offer to alleviate this pain is dry needling, a highly effective approach for relieving muscle tension and addressing the root of TMJ dysfunction. For this blog, I want to briefly highlight how dry needling works and discuss a recent study that validates its effectiveness, particularly when targeting trigger points within the jaw muscles.

Overview of Dry Needling for TMJ Pain

Dry needling, especially when applied deeply (a technique known as deep dry needling or DDN), is aimed at releasing muscle knots, or trigger points, that develop from muscle overuse, stress, or trauma. In TMJ dysfunction, these trigger points often form in the jaw’s key muscles, like the masseter, which can lead to chronic pain and restricted movement. By carefully inserting fine needles into these points, I can stimulate a localized healing response that releases tightness, reduces inflammation, and ultimately decreases the pain patients feel. This technique is minimally invasive and often produces noticeable results after just a few sessions.

Recent Research Validates Dry Needling’s Effectiveness for TMJ

A recent clinical trial sheds light on how effective DDN can be in treating TMJ disorders. In this study, 36 patients with TMJ dysfunction were divided into two groups: one received true deep dry needling on the masseter muscle, while the other underwent a simulated version. Evaluations were conducted at three intervals: before needling, 10 minutes post-needling, and again after 15 days. These assessments measured pain, jaw movement, muscle tone, and alignment to determine the impact of the treatment.

The results were impressive. Not only did patients who received the real DDN report significantly less facial pain, but they also experienced measurable improvements in jaw movement. The range of mouth opening increased, and the symmetry of jaw motion—an important factor in balanced and pain-free jaw function—was notably improved. Muscle tone decreased, and digital analysis of jaw alignment showed that the jaw moved more smoothly and symmetrically after needling.

Another key finding was the decrease in time required for the jaw to reach maximum force, an indicator of improved muscle relaxation and efficiency. Together, these results suggest that DDN is effective not only in reducing pain but also in restoring function and balance to the jaw, addressing both the symptoms and some of the underlying issues contributing to TMJ dysfunction.

How This Research Connects to My Practice

In my practice, I often incorporate dry needling as part of a broader TMJ treatment plan, addressing the unique needs of each patient. This study reinforces what I’ve observed: when applied to specific trigger points, dry needling can release chronic tension in the masseter muscle and improve jaw alignment, providing my patients with lasting relief. For those with severe jaw tension or limited mobility, dry needling serves as an excellent foundational treatment to reduce pain and increase the effectiveness of other therapies I might recommend, such as Active Release Technique (ART) or therapeutic exercises.

More recently, I have had really great success with Red Laser Therapy and Shockwave Therapy.

What makes this study particularly relevant is its focus on muscle balance and alignment, which are crucial in TMJ recovery. As the research shows, improving jaw symmetry not only alleviates pain but also restores functional alignment, helping prevent future discomfort. For patients experiencing the constant, frustrating cycle of TMJ pain, these benefits can make a dramatic difference in quality of life.

Personalized TMJ Care with Dry Needling

Each case of TMJ pain is unique, with factors ranging from muscle tension to misalignment contributing to the overall discomfort. By using dry needling, I target these muscle-specific issues directly, reducing tension in the masseter and other affected muscles. As shown by this study, dry needling is a valuable step in restoring balance and reducing pain for long-term relief. At Simply Move Chiropractic, I’m committed to integrating research-backed treatments that work, and dry needling has proven itself as an essential tool in effectively managing and alleviating TMJ pain for my patients.

If TMJ pain has been affecting your daily life and you live in Charlotte, NC, consider scheduling an appointment to explore how dry needling, along with a comprehensive treatment plan, can provide relief and help you regain comfortable, natural jaw movement.

Ankle Pain in Charlotte, NC: Understanding Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Natalie Otoya — Fri, 26 Jul 2024 15:06:54 +0000

Ankle pain can be a real hindrance, affecting our daily activities and overall quality of life. Living in Charlotte, NC, I see many patients suffering from this issue. Understanding the causes, diagnosis, and treatment options for ankle pain is crucial for effective management and recovery. In this blog post, I’ll delve into these aspects and highlight the treatments available at Simply Move Chiropractic, including Active Release Technique (ART) and dry needle therapy.

Causes of Ankle Pain

Ankle pain can stem from various sources, often related to injury or overuse. Common causes include:

1. Sprains and Strains: These occur when the ligaments or muscles around the ankle are overstretched or torn, usually due to sudden twisting or rolling of the ankle.

2. Tendinitis: Inflammation of the tendons around the ankle, often caused by repetitive stress or overuse.

3. Arthritis: Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can affect the ankle joint, leading to pain and stiffness.

4. Fractures: A break in any of the bones in the ankle can result from trauma, causing severe pain and swelling.

5. Achilles Tendon Issues: Conditions like Achilles tendinitis or a ruptured Achilles tendon can cause significant pain at the back of the ankle.

It’s important to remember that ankle pain can be the result of issues elsewhere in the body. This could be biomechanical, where imbalances in the knee or hip can lead to ankle pain. Or it could be more physiological like nerve compression in the back or even diabetes.

Diagnosing Ankle Pain

Diagnosing the exact cause of ankle pain involves a thorough assessment, including:

1. Medical History: Understanding the patient’s history, including any past injuries or underlying conditions.

2. Physical Examination: Assessing the range of motion, stability, and specific areas of tenderness in the ankle.

3. Imaging Tests: X-rays, MRIs, or ultrasounds may be necessary to get a detailed view of the structures within the ankle.

Treatment Options

At Simply Move Chiropractic, I focus on personalized treatment plans to address ankle pain effectively. Two of the key treatments I offer are Active Release Technique (ART) and dry needle therapy.

Active Release Technique (ART)

ART is a hands-on therapy that targets soft tissue injuries. It involves precise movements to release tension and improve mobility in muscles, ligaments, and tendons. For ankle pain, I often treat the following muscles:

•Gastrocnemius and Soleus: These calf muscles can contribute to ankle pain, especially if they are tight or overworked.

•Peroneal Muscles: Located on the outside of the lower leg, these muscles support ankle stability and can be a source of pain when strained.

•Flexor Hallucis Longus and Flexor Digitorum Longus: These muscles run along the inside of the ankle and are crucial for foot movement.

By addressing these muscles through ART, I can help reduce pain, improve flexibility, and restore normal function to the ankle.

Dry Needle Therapy

Dry needle therapy involves inserting thin needles into trigger points within the muscles. This can help relieve pain and improve muscle function. For ankle pain, I often target:

•Trigger Points in the Calf Muscles: To alleviate tension and improve blood flow.

•Peroneal Muscles: To reduce pain and enhance stability in the ankle.

Dry needle therapy can be highly effective in reducing pain and promoting healing in the affected areas.

Kinesiotaping

Kinesiotaping is a therapeutic technique that involves applying a special type of tape to the skin in specific patterns. This can help support and stabilize muscles and joints without restricting movement. For ankle pain, kinesiotaping can:

•Reduce Swelling and Inflammation: The tape lifts the skin slightly, allowing for better lymphatic drainage and reduced swelling.

•Support Muscles and Joints: By providing external support, kinesiotape can help prevent further injury and aid in the healing process.

•Enhance Proprioception: The tape can improve body awareness, helping you to move more correctly and avoid aggravating the injury.

Kinesiotaping can be an excellent addition to your treatment plan, providing support and pain relief while allowing you to remain active during recovery.

Compression Therapy

Compression therapy is another valuable treatment option for ankle pain. It involves using specialized equipment to apply controlled pressure to the affected area, improving blood flow and reducing inflammation. At Simply Move Chiropractic, I offer advanced compression therapy that can:

•Reduce Swelling and Inflammation: By enhancing circulation, compression therapy helps decrease swelling in the ankle.

•Accelerate Healing: Improved blood flow can speed up the recovery process by delivering more oxygen and nutrients to the injured tissues.

•Relieve Pain: The pressure from compression can alleviate pain and discomfort, making it an effective complementary treatment for ankle pain.

By integrating compression therapy into your treatment plan, I can provide a comprehensive approach to managing and relieving ankle pain.

Addressing Biomechanics

Understanding and addressing biomechanics is essential for both finding the root cause of ankle pain and guiding the rehabilitation process. By analyzing how you walk, run, and move, I can identify any biomechanical issues that may be contributing to your pain. Common issues include:

•Overpronation or Supination: Abnormal foot mechanics can place undue stress on the ankle.

•Poor Footwear: Shoes that do not provide adequate support can exacerbate ankle problems.

•Muscle Imbalances: Weakness or tightness in certain muscle groups can affect ankle stability and function.

By correcting these biomechanical issues, we can not only relieve pain but also prevent future injuries. This might involve recommending specific exercises, orthotics, or changes in footwear.

Conclusion

Ankle pain can be debilitating, but with the right approach, it can be effectively managed and treated. At Simply Move Chiropractic, I offer comprehensive care that includes Active Release Technique, dry needle therapy, compression therapy, and biomechanical assessments. If you’re experiencing ankle pain in Charlotte, NC, don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we can develop a personalized treatment plan to get you back on your feet and moving comfortably again.

Dry Needle Therapy Pricing

Natalie Otoya — Fri, 23 Feb 2024 13:17:29 +0000

Dry Needle Pricing in Charlotte NC

Certified Dry Needle Therapy

Each and every visit is spent entirely one-on-one with myself and the patient. I have found the more time I spend with my patients the more likely I am to give them the fastest rate of recovery.

I am certified in dry needle therapy and have found it to be an effective tool in my practice. I offer dry needle therapy as a separate treatment option from my standard chiropractic care. Below you will find my costs.

Rates & Payment Options

I am a cash only practice meaning I do not take insurance but I do take FSA (Flexible Spending Account) cards.

Insurance Options

I can provide you with an itemized bill that you can submit to your insurance company personally. Almost all of my patients that do this get reimbursed to their plan’s fullest extent.

*Please keep in mind all insurance plans are different.

Per Region - $50

25 Minute Sessions

Multiple regions can usually be done in a single session.

I accept cash, checks and all major credit cards.

Hours

Appointments before 8:00am and after 6:30pm M-F are an additional $30 to the rates stated here.

8:00am - 6:30pm

Weekend appointments are available on a case by case basis.