November 19, 2024
Dry needling is a popular therapy used to r elieve muscle tension , reduce pain , and improve mobility by targeting trigger points. If you’ve just had a dry needling session, you might be wondering, “Can I train right after treatment?” At Good Health Group Clinic, we often hear this question from athletes and active individuals, so let’s explore the best practices for post-needling activity. Dry needling creates micro-trauma to the targeted muscles, which stimulates blood flow , reduces tension , and r eleases trigger points . This can leave the treated muscles feeling sore , heavy , or fatigued for a short period . Despite this temporary discomfort, research indicates that engaging in exercise after dry needling can have positive outcomes when done correctly. Studies have shown that combining dry needling with exercise may lead to enhanced therapeutic effects, such as improved pain relief and greater muscle function. For example, research published in the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy demonstrated significant benefits for individuals with patellofemoral pain syndrome who exercised following dry needling compared to those who exercised alone. This suggests that light or moderate activity after treatment can be a powerful part of your recovery process.