Dry Needle Technique
The term dry needling is used to differentiate this treatment from acupuncture. Dry Needle Technique or Therapy primarily treats areas of muscle pain (trigger points) that often have a build up of lactic acid or scar tissue.
Because dry needling is the penetration of the skin by an acupuncture needle, strict needle safety protocols are observed and sterility of the equipment is always maintained. Our office only uses sterile, disposable needles at all times.
Pain in the muscles may be caused by trigger points - essentially contracted muscles that can refer pain throughout the body. Dry needling helps release these shortened muscles and promote healing.
Dry needling can be used to treat a wide variety of conditions that include neck pain, headaches, low back pain, shoulder pain, hip pain and whiplash injuries.
Dry Needle Technique is considered a "cutting edge" therapy and in January of 2011 Dr. Thatcher obtained certification.