Restoring Wellness & Transforming Lives
Client-Centered Approach
Restoring Wellness & Transforming Lives | Client-Centered Approach
At Advanced Physical Therapy, we specialize in a unique and effective treatment method known as dry needling. This is a technique deeply rooted in Western medicine, and it involves using a thin filiform needle to stimulate trigger points in your muscles and connective tissues, thus providing you with relief.
In the book "Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction: The Trigger Point Manual" by Travell and Simon, Dr. Janet Travell describes a trigger point as a highly sensitive area within skeletal muscle that is linked to a palpable, hypersensitive nodule within a tense band. These points are tender to touch and can cause distinctive referred pain, motor impairment, and autonomic responses. Many individuals identify trigger points as muscle "knots," which are prevalent in various regions of the body due to factors such as excessive use, poor posture, sudden injuries, and metabolic imbalances.
It is important to distinguish dry needling from acupuncture, as their underlying principles and techniques vary significantly. Dry needling is rooted in Western medicine, targeting precise areas of tension within muscles similar to trigger point injections. On the other hand, acupuncture follows an Eastern holistic approach by addressing superficial meridian points to restore the balance of a client's "chi."
A healthy muscle usually feels very little discomfort upon insertion of the needle; however, if the muscle is sensitive and shortened or contains active trigger points, the subject may feel a sensation much like a muscle cramp or deep pressure, often referred to as a 'twitch response.' A reproduction of their pain can be a helpful diagnostic indicator of the cause of the symptoms. Patients soon learn to recognize and even welcome this sensation as it results in deactivating the trigger point, reducing pain and restoring normal length and function of the involved muscle.
Typically, positive results are apparent within 1-4 treatment sessions but can vary depending on the cause and duration of the symptoms, overall health of the patient, and experience level of the practitioner.
Yes! If you've discharged from our care and want to come by for a needling session, We offer dry needling on a "maintenance basis." Call us to get scheduled!
At Advanced Physical Therapy of Little Rock, North Little Rock, and Benton, our focus is on providing patient-centered, outcome oriented and scientifically based treatment for general orthopedic problems, lymphatics, prenatal and postpartum conditions, and pelvic floor dysfunction for men, women, and children of all ages.
"Advanced PT has been so helpful for me! All of the therapists and techs are so friendly and knowledgeable. Kellie is phenomenal! I would highly recommend anyone to come here if you need physical therapy!"
- Brooke S. via Google
2504 McCain Boulevard
Suite 230
North Little Rock, AR 72116
(501) 758-5555
Fax: (501) 758-5941
1226 Ferguson Drive
Suite 1
Benton, AR 72015
(501) 776-9788
Fax: (501) 776-9778
8100 Bldg
North Little Rock, AR 72199
(501) 944-2068
Fax: (501) 758-5941
10321 Maumelle Blvd
North Little Rock, AR 72113
(501) 246-5707
Fax: (501) 246-5829