Some may already be familiar with what dry needling is and how it can be helpful in physical therapy for orthopedic or musculoskeletal conditions, but may not know how this modality is implemented into pelvic floor physical therapy.

 

For those not familiar with dry needling, it is a technique where a thin needle is inserted into a specific trigger point to relieve muscle tension and spasms as well as stimulate healing and decrease pain. The insertion of the needle can have a slightly "achey" sensation and will usually result in whats called a local twitch response (LTR), where the muscle will have a visual twitch or contraction. Electric stimulation can additionally emphasize the effects of dry needling and is generally more comfortable as well when it comes to the twitch response created.

 

The implementation of dry needling into pelvic floor physical therapy can be used for all the reasons listed above as well as other more specific uses in the region of the pelvis. It can help in regard to specific muscle dysfunction in the area as well as any dysregulation of the pelvic organs or viscera of the abdomen. Dry needling can help reduce the sense of urgency with urination as well as decrease constipation and diarrhea, it can even help to improve your breathing and other aspects of your nervous system.

 

This modality is used in pelvic floor physical therapy to create a window where your symptoms are reduced or resolved and muscle function and motor control are optimal. We take advantage of this time frame where the body is working at its best to perform strengthening and mobility exercises as well as breathing techniques. All together, this process leads to decreased pain and improved muscle function that will carry over into long lasting results!