Dry needling in Markham

Dry needling and acupuncture both use thin needles, but their purposes differ. Dry needling focuses on relieving muscle pain and tension by targeting trigger points in the muscles. Acupuncture, rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, aims to balance the body’s energy flow (Qi) and treats a wider range of issues, including stress, pain, and other health concerns.

Dry needling is legal in Canada, but the regulations vary by province. Physiotherapists who wish to practice dry needling must complete approved training courses and meet specific requirements set by their provincial physiotherapy colleges. In Ontario, physiotherapists can perform dry needling after completing the necessary education and obtaining authorization from their regulatory body. It is a widely accepted practice in physiotherapy for treating musculoskeletal pain and improving mobility. 

At The Physio Spot, we have completed the approved dry-needling courses and have the necessary certifications. ​

Dry needling works by inserting fine needles into specific muscle trigger points, known as knots, to relieve tension. The needles trigger a small twitch response, which helps the muscle relax. This increased blood flow and muscle relaxation reduce pain, promote healing, and restore mobility in areas affected by muscle tightness or injury.

Dry needling can cause mild discomfort, but it usually isn’t painful. You might feel a small prick when the needle enters your skin, followed by a twitch or cramp as the needle hits a trigger point. This response is a good sign that the muscle is releasing tension. Most patients describe the sensation as brief and tolerable.

Yes, dry needling is effective for many people. It targets muscle knots, or trigger points, to release tension and improve blood flow. This helps relieve pain, increase mobility, and promote healing. Many patients report positive outcomes, especially chronic pain, muscle stiffness, and injury recovery. However, individual results can vary based on the condition being treated and the therapist's skill.

If a dry needling needle accidentally hits a nerve, you may feel a sharp, electric-like sensation, tingling, or a brief jolt of pain. This is because nerves are sensitive structures that carry signals to and from the brain. In most cases, the sensation subsides quickly once the needle is adjusted or removed. While it can be uncomfortable, experienced practitioners know how to avoid nerves and minimize this risk.

Dry needling physiotherapy is a technique physiotherapists use to treat muscle pain and dysfunction. During treatment, the physiotherapist inserts thin, sterile needles into specific muscle trigger points, which are tight or painful areas. The goal is to release muscle tension, improve blood flow, and reduce pain. Dry needling is often used alongside other treatments, like exercise and manual therapy, to help restore function and mobility.

Yes, you can generally take ibuprofen after a dry needling session. Ibuprofen is an anti-inflammatory medication that can help reduce any mild soreness or inflammation that may occur after treatment. However, it’s always a good idea to check with your physiotherapist, especially if you have any specific health conditions or are taking other medications.

After dry needling, avoid strenuous exercise for 24-48 hours to let your muscles recover. Skip applying heat, as it may worsen soreness. Avoid alcohol, as it can slow healing, and make sure to stay hydrated to support muscle recovery. Follow your physiotherapist’s advice for the best results.

Gunn IMS (Intramuscular Stimulation) is a dry needling technique that treats chronic pain caused by nerve dysfunction. Developed by Dr. Chan Gunn, it targets tight muscles by inserting needles into trigger points to release tension. Unlike traditional dry needling, Gunn IMS addresses nerve hypersensitivity, making it effective for nerve-related musculoskeletal pain, such as sciatica or chronic back pain.