Facial Dry Needling

Understanding Facial Dry Needling and It’s Benefits

Facial dry needling is a therapeutic technique used to treat various musculoskeletal issues by targeting myofascial trigger points. This method involves inserting thin, dry needles into specific points on the face to alleviate pain, improve mobility and promote healing. It is a minimally invasive procedure that can provide significant relief for those suffering from chronic pain and tension in the facial muscles.

Pathology and Mechanism 

Dry needling works by stimulating trigger points, which are knotted areas in the muscles that can cause pain and restrict movement. These trigger points can develop due to muscle overuse, stress, and or injury. When a needle is inserted into a trigger point, it helps to release muscle tension, increase blood flow, and reduce inflammation. This process can also stimulate the release of endorphins, the body’s natural pain relievers, and promote the healing of damaged tissues. The precise mechanism involves a local twitch response, which is brief contraction of the muscles fibers in the trigger point, leading to a reduction in muscle tightness and pain. 

Benefits of Facial Dry Needling 

Facial dry needling offers several benefits for individuals suffering from various facial and jaw related issues. It can effectively reduce pain associated with conditions like temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction, headaches, and facial muscle tension by targeting the source of the pain and providing direct relief. Additionally, by releasing tight muscles and improving blood flow, dry needling enhances the range of motion in the jaw and facial muscles, which is particularly beneficial for those experiencing stiffness or limited movement. Unlike surgical interventions, dry needling is a minimally invasive procedure with few side effects, making it a convenient option for many patients. Furthermore, this technique addresses the underlying causes of the pain and dysfunction, offering a comprehensive treatment option that aims to restore overall balance and function. 

Conditions Treated with Dry Needling 

Facial dry needling is an effective treatment for a variety of conditions, including TMJ dysfunction, headaches, nausea, sinus congestion, and facial muscle tension. By targeting the muscles involved in jaw movement, it helps alleviate jaw pain and improve function. Additionally, dry needling may be useful in post-surgical recovery by promoting tissue healing, reducing scar tissue, and improve mobility after surgeries. 

Conclusion

Facial dry needling is a valuable treatment option for those suffering from various facial and jaw- related issues. By targeting trigger points, this technique can provide significant pain relief, improve mobility, and offer a holistic approach to managing musculoskeletal conditions. If you believe you could benefit from facial dry needling, please contact Alchemy in Motion to discuss possible options for you. 

References:

Fatih Taşkesen & Burak Cezairli. (2023)The effectiveness of the masseteric nerve block compared with trigger point injections and dry needling in myofascial pain. CRANIO® 41:2, pages 96-101. 

Trybulski R, Kawczyński A, Muracki J, Lovecchio N, Kużdżał A. Dry Needling and Acupuncture for Scars—A Systematic Review. Journal of Clinical Medicine. 2024; 13(14):3994. https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13143994 

Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.).Dry needling. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/16542-dry-needling