The physical and occupational therapists at Memorial Hermann Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation specialize in providing targeted exercise and associated intervention for patients of all ages and levels of ability. Whether you’re an elite athlete looking to increase physical performance or you need to relieve pain and restore lost movement, our specialty trained staff will use the latest therapies and state-of-the-art equipment to help you meet or exceed your specific goals.
We will perform a comprehensive physical evaluation and share the findings with you and your referring physician to collaboratively provide the best course of treatment.
The American Physical Therapy Association defines dry needling as a skilled intervention that uses a thin needle to penetrate the skin and stimulate muscular, and connective tissues to help manage muscular pain and movement issues. It is a technique used to treat dysfunctions in your skeletal muscle and connective tissue. In addition, this helps to lessen chronic pain, reduce impairments in body structure and restore function, leading to improved activity and participation.
While the use of a filament needle may seem familiar (and is often associated with the treatment of acupuncture), dry needling is a unique approach to utilizing a filament needle for the management of neuromuscular conditions. It is also important to note that these needles contain no medication, are all single-use needles and are kept in sterile gas prior to use.
While the underlying mechanisms of dry needling can be a bit scientific, the basis of its effectiveness involves the collaboration of your body, brain and nervous system. Dry needling has been shown to impact the chemicals associated with pain in and around a tissue, while also offering an input into your brain which can decrease the perception of pain and discomfort. Your therapist can explain more about how it can help your individual condition.
Dry needling is a modern, science-based intervention, which is available and offered at many of the Memorial Hermann sports medicine clinic locations. Therapists performing dry needling have undergone hands-on, specific training and are well equipped to answer any questions you may have regarding the procedure.
Research continues to emerge regarding dry needling and its benefits. Although initial evidence is limited at this time, it has been shown to be effective for treatment of a variety of neuromuscular issues, such as neck and back pain, muscular strains (such as running injuries), and things like tennis elbow and certain types of headaches.
If you’re interested in learning more about physical therapy, trained staff members at Memorial Hermann Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation are here to help. Schedule your initial evaluation for physical therapy or occupational therapy today by filling out the form on this page or calling a location below.
If you’re interested in finding relief through physical or occupational therapy, the therapists at Memorial Hermann Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation are here to help. Request an initial evaluation appointment by filling out the form below or calling (713) 521-0020 or (888) 301-8477.