Dry Needling

What is Dry Needling?

Dry Needling (also frequently called IMS, or Ashi Point Acupuncture) is a technique in which myofascial trigger points are targeted with acupuncture stimulation. 

Trigger points a dysfunctional contracture of muscle fibre - these are the tight and painful muscle knots which we are all familiar with.  These tight contractures of muscle tissue interrupt the local blood circulation and alter the nerve sensation in the region resulting in a characteristic painful sensation frequently with a general region of pain being associated with it (the ‘referral pattern’).

Applying acupuncture to these locations interrupts the tissue contracture and normalizes local circulation and nerve function.  We typically see a twitch response as the muscle tissue ‘releases’ and normalizes.  

It is normal to feel some soreness and fatigue for 24-48 hour following trigger point needling similar to the soreness after exercise.  

​

We frequently pair dry needling with other acupuncture techniques to regulate the nervous system and encourage proper integration of the dry needling effect. 

​

If you're curious about dry needling, you can book an assessment here.