What is the primary effect of trigger point dry needling?

The primary effect of trigger point dry needling is to directly relax the muscle. This technique involves inserting a thin needle into specific hyperirritable spots within a muscle, known as trigger points. The insertion of the needle helps to disrupt the dysfunctional muscle tissue, which can alleviate pain and restore normal muscle function.

When the needle is applied to these trigger points, it creates a local twitch response, which can help to release tightness and tension in the muscle. This physiological response leads to a decrease in muscle hypertonicity and can result in improved range of motion and overall muscle relaxation.

While other effects such as tissue healing and muscle endurance enhancement may occur as indirect benefits of the procedure, the immediate and primary goal of dry needling is the direct relaxation of the muscle and relief from pain associated with myofascial trigger points.