Dry Needling for running injuries

At Running Solutions we use Dry Needling for running injuries. A large number of running injuries can be effectively treated with this. In this article you can read what dry needling is, what the advantages and disadvantages of this treatment method and why it is not a treatment in itself.

What is Dry Needling?

Dry needling is a method in which small needles are put within tights muscle bands in muscles with the aim of effectively and quickly relaxing the muscle. The muscle hardening that is pierced with the small needle is a trigger point in the muscle.

Why do we release these triggerpoints?

Trigger points are hardening / cramping of muscle fibers. These trigger point can give local pressure pain but also radiating pain over a larger area. In addition, trigger points can lead to reduced muscle function, shortened muscles and muscle stiffness.

How do triggerpoints occur in runners?

Most trigger points are caused by an overload of the muscle. This can be due to an incorrect running technique, too much, too fast or too long training. But also due to incorrect muscle use outside of sports, such as ergonomics at work.

A trigger point can also occur acute, for example due to a fall or ankle sprain.

What will a treatment be like?

If the therapist’s research shows that there are trigger points in the muscles, it may be decided in consultation with you to use dry needling. This will aim to improve muscle function and quickly reduce the symptoms of pain you experience.

However, dry needling is only part of a total treatment in which all factors that influence the complaints are included. The trigger points are often just a part of the problem and more will often be needed.

How does it feel?

The piercing of the muscle is almost without any feeling. However, the moment the trigger point is hit, a contraction of the muscle can occur, this is called ” local twitch response ”. This can give a feeling of cramping for a short time. The muscle then relaxes quickly and the metabolism in the muscle increases. Because of this you will notice the positive effect quickly.

After treatment, the muscle may feel tired or stiff for another day. This is normal and only for a short time.

Indications for dry needling

Dry needling can be really effective for a great varaity of running injury’s. Injury’s like Achilles tendon pain, Calf pain, Foot pain, shinpain, Runners knee, hip pain etc.

Contraindications for dry needling

Dry needling is not recommended for pregnant women in the first 3 months, with blood diseases, with infections and for people with an increased risk of infection such as diabetes and lymphatic problems.

Do you need help solving your running injuries? Book an appointment in our calendar.