Trigger Point Dry Needling (TDN), Functional Dry Needling (FDN), Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS) are all synonymous terms for this type of therapy.

Trigger Point Dry Needling is a treatment for muscular tightness and spasm which commonly follows injuries and often accompanies the degenerative processes. This muscular tightness and spasm will cause compression and irritation of the nerves exiting the spine. When the nerves are irritated, they cause a protective spasm of all the muscles to which they are connected. This may cause peripheral diagnoses, such as carpel tunnel, tendonitis, osteoarthritis, decreased mobility and chronic pain. 

Small, thin needles are inserted in the muscles at the trigger points causing the pain referral.  The needle causes your abnormal muscle to contract and release, improving the flexibility of the muscle and decreasing symptoms. Patients call it a ‘good’ or positive pain because it soon disappears and is usually followed by a feeling of relief and relaxation. Once the shortened muscles are released, the pain will dissipate. Some soreness may result for a 24-hour period.