How can patients describe the sensation experienced during dry needling?

Patients typically describe the sensation experienced during dry needling as a "twitch," deep ache, or feeling of release in the muscle. This response occurs because dry needling targets myofascial trigger points, which are hyperirritable spots located within taut bands of skeletal muscle. When the needle is inserted, it can elicit a local twitch response, which is the involuntary contraction of the muscle. This twitch response can help relieve muscle tension and improve blood flow in the area, leading to a sense of release or relaxation. Additionally, as the needle penetrates the tissue and releases tension within the muscle fibers, patients often experience deep ache sensations, signaling both engagement of the muscles and potential relief from pain associated with muscle tightness or dysfunction. This description is unique to dry needling and distinguishes it from other forms of treatment modalities.