In which patients is dry needling (DN) considered appropriate for pain control?

Dry needling is particularly suitable for individuals experiencing central or peripheral sensitization because it specifically targets myofascial trigger points where pain may originate. This technique can help alleviate pain by disrupting the cycle of muscle tension and promoting the release of the substances involved in pain modulation.

Patients with central or peripheral sensitization often have heightened responses to pain due to changes in their nervous system. Dry needling can assist in normalizing these responses and restoring function, thereby providing effective pain control. This approach is supported by evidence showing that dry needling can lead to decreased pain sensation and improve muscle function in these populations.

In contrast, patients with ongoing acute pain only may require immediate medical intervention or a different treatment strategy that addresses the underlying cause of their pain rather than focusing solely on the trigger points. Chronic muscle injuries, while they may benefit from dry needling, are not the only population that should be targeted, as the technique is broad in its application. Similarly, patients without any pain conditions wouldn't require dry needling, as the procedure aims to address pain-related issues directly. Thus, individuals experiencing central or peripheral sensitization represent a key population that can benefit significantly from dry needling for effective pain control.