Achilles Tendon Myths

By Aaron Woolley, Physiotherapist

The Achilles tendon serves as the robust link between the muscles of the calf and the foot. Symptoms of Achilles tendinopathy often include pain in the tendon, stiffness following periods of rest, and sensitivity to touch. This condition is typically a result of excessive strain on the tendon or sudden increases in physical activity. It is seen in 25% of professional athletes and affects approximately 15% of recreational runners. It’s no surprise that this issue is commonly encountered at Robina Physio on the Gold Coast. Despite its prevalence, there are many myths and misconceptions surrounding its causes, treatment, and management. This blog post aims to debunk some of the Achilles Tendon Myths and provide evidence-based information to help individuals better understand Achilles tendinopathy.

Myth 1: Only Athletes Get Achilles Tendinopathy

One of the most pervasive myths is that Achilles tendinopathy only affects athletes, particularly runners. While it’s true that athletes are at a higher risk due to repetitive strain and overuse, anyone can develop the condition. Many factors including poor footwear, excessive pronation, sudden increases in physical activity, and even certain medical conditions can contribute to the development of Achilles tendinopathy in non-athletes.

Myth 2: Complete Rest is the Best Treatment

This is probably the most widespread Achilles Tendon Myths around. Historically, complete rest was prescribed as the primary treatment for Achilles tendinopathy. However, recent evidence suggests that complete rest can actually hinder recovery. While it’s important to minimise activities that exacerbate the pain initially, gentle movement and specific exercises that promote tendon loading and healing are now recommended. Eccentric exercises, which involve lengthening the muscle while contracting it, have been shown to be particularly effective in treating Achilles tendinopathy.

Myth 3: Steroid Injections are a Quick Fix

Steroid injections are often thought of as a quick fix for pain relief in various musculoskeletal conditions, including Achilles tendinopathy. However, research indicates that steroid injections may weaken the tendon over time and increase the risk of tendon rupture. Therefore, this Achilles Tendon Myths has the potential to really set back progress and potentially worsen your tendons integrity. Instead, physiotherapy directed treatment like at Robina Physio on the Gold Coast, including exercises tailored to the individual’s condition and pain management techniques, is the preferred approach.

Myth 4: Surgery is Often Necessary

Surgery is sometimes considered a necessary step for those suffering from Achilles tendinopathy, especially when conservative treatments fail. While surgery can be an option for chronic, non-responsive cases, it’s often seen as a last resort. Many individuals with Achilles tendinopathy can achieve significant improvement or even full recovery with a well-designed physiotherapy program focused on strengthening and flexibility exercises. But bear in mind that an Achilles rupture is different beast and may require surgery more frequently.

Myth 5: Pain Equals Damage

The belief that pain is always indicative of damage is a common misconception. In the context of Achilles tendinopathy, pain does not necessarily correlate with the amount of tendon damage. It’s possible to have significant pain with minimal tissue damage and vice versa. This is why assessing and treating Achilles tendinopathy requires a comprehensive approach that considers pain levels, functional limitations, and individual goals rather than relying solely on imaging findings. When managing Achilles tendinopathy slight pain can sometimes be considered favourable.

Myth 6: All Pain Should be Avoided During Recovery

While it’s important to manage pain and avoid activities that cause significant discomfort, some level of pain is acceptable and even expected during the recovery process. A general guideline is the “24-hour rule,” where exercises that cause pain that returns to baseline within 24 hours are considered safe. This approach encourages gradual loading of the tendon, which is essential for healing.

Myth 7: Only High-Intensity Exercise Benefits Achilles Tendinopathy

While high-intensity exercise can be part of a rehabilitation program for Achilles tendinopathy, it’s not the only beneficial form of exercise. Low to moderate intensity exercises, particularly those focusing on tendon loading and stretching, play a crucial role in the recovery process. These exercises help improve tendon health and function without placing excessive stress on the tendon. The expert physiotherapists at Robina Physio on the Gold Coast can put together the highest quality loading program available to treat your Achilles pain incorporating these forms of loading.

Achilles Physio Gold Coast: Achilles Tendon Myths

Achilles tendinopathy can be a frustrating and debilitating condition, but understanding the facts can empower individuals to seek effective treatment and manage their recovery more effectively. By debunking these myths, we hope to provide a clearer path to recovery for those affected by Achilles tendinopathy.

Remember, a personalised approach to treatment, focusing on gradual progression and addressing individual needs, is key to successful management. If you suspect you have Achilles tendinopathy, consulting a physiotherapist or healthcare professional is the first step towards understanding and overcoming this condition.

At Robina Physio on the Gold Coast, we take a comprehensive approach that extends beyond merely diagnosing your injury and handing you a rehabilitation plan. After a thorough evaluation, our primary goal is to swiftly return you to your favourite sports and activities. Our rehabilitation strategy not only provides direct treatment to alleviate your pain, but also includes a comprehensive exercise regimen and a strategically developed plan for your return to running. Recognising the significance of load management, we continue our support by assisting in the planning of your training sessions, ensuring a safe and gradual increase in your running intensity.

I hope you found this article on Achilles Tendon Myths insightful. If your struggling with Achilles Pain and Tendinopathy visit our expert physiotherapists at Robina Physio on the Gold Coast and getting running pain free again. Don’t hesitate to Contact Us on (07) 5578 7233 or BOOK ONLINE.

Scoliosis Physio

By Aaron Woolley, Physiotherapist.

Continuing with the Robina Physio blog series, we shift our focus to an equally significant but often misunderstood condition: scoliosis. Scoliosis physio presents its unique challenges and more often than not requires a specialised approach of physiotherapy management.

Spinal Anatomy

Before we take the deep dive into scoliosis physio it’s important we understand normal spinal anatomy. The human spinal column is typically composed of 33 vertebrae, categorised into several distinct regions. This structure includes 24 individual vertebrae, along with 9 fused vertebrae forming two separate regions at the base.

Specifically, the spine consists of:

1. Cervical Vertebrae: The uppermost section, comprising 7 cervical vertebrae.
2. Thoracic Vertebrae: Following the cervical region, there are 12 thoracic vertebrae.
3. Lumbar Vertebrae: Below the thoracic region, 5 lumbar vertebrae are located.
4. Sacrum: This is a fusion of 5 vertebrae, forming a single structure.
5. Coccyx: Commonly known as the tailbone, typically involving 4 fused vertebrae.

Variations in this structure are possible, including conditions like hemi-vertebrae and fusion of vertebrae in regions outside the sacrum and coccyx.

In terms of spinal curvature, when viewed from the side, the vertebral column in an upright posture reveals five distinct curves:

1. Cervical Curves: There are two curves in the cervical spine. The upper cervical curve stretches from the base of the skull (occiput) to the second vertebra (axis), curving convexly forward. Conversely, the lower cervical curve, which is lordotic, extends from the axis to the second thoracic vertebra, curving in the opposite direction of the upper curve.
2. Thoracic Curve: This curve spans from the second to the twelfth thoracic vertebrae (T2 to T12), and is concave forward. This concavity results from the posterior parts of the vertebral bodies being deeper in this region. Additionally, a slight lateral curve is often present in the upper thoracic area, with the convexity directed either to the right or left.
3. Lumbar Curve: Extending from the first lumbar vertebra (L1) to the junction where the lumbar spine meets the sacrum, this curve is convex forward.
4. Sacral Curve: This curve, which includes the sacrum, extends from the lumbosacral junction to the coccyx. It is characterised by a forward and downward facing anterior concavity.

Understanding Scoliosis

Scoliosis is a condition characterised by an abnormal lateral (sideways) curvature of the spine. It can occur in children and adults, but it is most commonly identified in adolescents. The curvature can vary in degree, and in some cases, it may be accompanied by a rotation of the spine, leading to a more complex three-dimensional deformity. Scoliosis affects 3% of the population and is more prevalent in females. The severity of the condition ranges from mild to severe, resulting in a diverse array of treatment options. Notably, females have an eightfold increased risk of developing a degree of curvature that requires medical intervention. At Robina Physio on the Gold Coast our Physiotherapists are experts with a deep understanding of the human spine and conditions affecting its function.

Causes and Types of Scoliosis

The exact cause of scoliosis is often unknown (idiopathic), particularly in adolescents. However, some cases are attributed to congenital spinal deformities, neuromuscular conditions, or trauma. Scoliosis can be broadly categorised into three types:

1. Idiopathic Scoliosis: accounts for approximately 80% of scoliosis diagnoses, identified by the process of excluding other potential causes. The designation ‘idiopathic’ implies that the underlying cause of the condition remains unknown.
2. Congenital Scoliosis: arises during embryonic development, leading to the malformation of one or more spinal vertebrae. This can happen at any point along the spine and is due to disparities in growth rates within different sections of the spinal column, resulting in curvature and other spinal deformities. Since these irregularities are present from birth, congenital scoliosis is often discovered earlier than idiopathic scoliosis.
3. Neuromuscular Scoliosis: is a form that develops as a consequence of underlying neurological or muscular disorders, such as spinal muscular atrophy, cerebral palsy, and spina bifida. This variation of scoliosis tends to progress more swiftly than idiopathic scoliosis and frequently necessitates surgical intervention.

Signs and Symptoms

For many scoliosis is more of an aesthetic issue, but it can also lead to physical discomfort and impact overall health. Common signs include:

• Visible curvature of the spine
• Uneven shoulders or hips
• Rib prominence or a prominent shoulder blade
• Back pain or discomfort
• Fatigue due to muscle strain

Diagnosis and Assessment

Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, including the Adam’s Forward Bend Test, and imaging tests like X-rays to determine the curvature’s angle (Cobb Angle). In physiotherapy, a comprehensive assessment is crucial to tailor the treatment effectively. This assessment may include:

• Evaluating the spine’s range of motion
• Muscle strength testing
• Postural analysis
• Assessing breathing patterns and lung capacity

Physiotherapy Management

The role of physiotherapy in managing scoliosis is pivotal. While severe cases may require more intensive treatments such as bracing or surgery, many individuals with scoliosis benefit significantly from conservative interventions.

1. Exercise Therapy: Specific exercises are designed to strengthen and stabilise the muscles supporting the spine. This includes strengthening the core, improving posture, and specific stretching exercises to help counter the curvatures pulling.
2. Manual Therapy: Techniques like soft tissue mobilisation and spinal manipulation can help alleviate pain and improve spinal mobility. Unfortunately, those with scoliosis have a higher prevalence of back pain. This can be managed well expert physio care similar to that provided at Robina Physio on the Gold Coast.
3. Postural Training: Educating patients on maintaining proper posture during daily activities is crucial in managing scoliosis. It is very common for people with scoliosis to experience other structural/functional changes including winging scapula and forward head posture.
4. Bracing and Support: In some cases, particularly in growing children and adolescents, bracing might be recommended. Some studies have shown it may help to prevent the future progression of the curve in some patients. The downside is the brace typically needs to be worn 23 hours per day.

The majority of scoliosis cases are only mild with Cobb angles less than 20 degrees and will be managed with observation and physiotherapy. Once angles start to get between 30-40 degrees intervention such as bracing may be considered for some depending on their age. Only once Cobb angles to a more severe level of 40-50 degrees is surgery then considered.

Other than surgery no interventions has been proven to improve a patient’s spinal curvature. But conservative interventions have been shown to be useful in minimising pain and curvature progression. Although it’s important to note that improving the curvature angle doesn’t necessarily mean an improvement of pain and/or function. Therefore, you should take careful consideration when deciding on which treatment path to take.

At Robina Physio on the Gold Coast our Physiotherapists work in conjunction with your GP and Orthopaedic specialist to ensure your and/or your loved get the highest quality care which is guided by the most up to date evidence-based treatments and advice.

The Good News

While scoliosis cannot always be prevented, early detection and intervention can significantly impact the progression and management of the condition. The vast majority to people with scoliosis have little to no symptoms other than the aesthetic appearance of the spine. Even people with larger curvatures still function normally without limitation, even at an elite sporting level. So overall don’t let a scoliosis diagnosis scare or dishearten you unnecessarily.

Scoliosis, much like TMJ dysfunction, requires a nuanced and specialised approach in physiotherapy. The goal is not just to manage the curvature of the spine but to enhance overall quality of life, ensuring individuals with scoliosis can lead active, healthy lives. At Robina Physio on the Gold Coast, our dedicated team is trained to provide comprehensive care for those dealing with scoliosis, offering support and tailored interventions every step of the way.

If you or someone you know is struggling with scoliosis, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Early intervention can make a significant difference. Contact Us at Robina Physio on the Gold Coast or BOOK ONLINE to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards effective management of scoliosis.

Running Physio

By Aaron Woolley. Gold Coast Physio, Robina Physiotherapy.

Running is an excellent activity that offers numerous health benefits. Not only does it help with cardiovascular fitness, it also is great for building soft tissue strength, bone density and has huge benefits for mental health. Running also has great community engagement and therefore has great social interactions whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned competitor. Almost all runners will experience an injury during their running journey. Thankfully, the majority of running injuries are minor and with good quality physiotherapy rehabilitation like you would receive with a Running Physio at Robina Physio on the Gold Coast these injuries can be treated quickly and effectively.

In this article, we will delve into the common causes of running injuries, signs to watch out for, and tips to help you remain injury-free. We will also highlight the pivotal role a Running Physio at Robina Physio on the Gold Coast can have in both managing and preventing future injuries.

Common Running Injuries

• ITB Syndrome: The ITB, running from the hip to the ankle, aids in knee stabilization. However, its structure makes it prone to injuries, especially when there’s excessive tension on the lateral knee. Symptoms include pain on the knee’s outer side, worsening pain during runs, discomfort when ascending or descending stairs, and post-run soreness.
• Patellofemoral Joint Syndrome: The kneecap endures significant force during runs. An imbalance or excessive force can lead to pain around the kneecap. Symptoms often include a vague, shifting pain that might intensify during a run but occasionally diminishes for some runners.
• Muscle Tightness and Strains: Muscles tightness and pain is highly common in runners. Muscles in the legs, gluts and lower back are the most common sites for muscle pain. But considering that running involves the entire body, running related muscle pain could affect any muscle in the body. Getting an assessment and soft tissue release from an expert running physio at Robina Physio on the Gold Coast can quickly improve this and get you running again. BOOK ONLINE HERE!
• Shin Splints: Shin splints are characterised by pain along the inside border of the tibia. Swelling in the area may or may not be present. It is common for shin splint related pain to feel like Be dull and throbbing pain that occurs during and after running. Shin splints is often worse at the beginning of running, gets better as you warm up, then worse again following running.
• Plantar Fasciitis: This condition affects the thick band beneath the foot, crucial for arch support. Symptoms typically include pain near the heel, which may extend across the foot, exacerbated pain during runs, and post-run soreness. Poor running and foot biomechanics highly impact the likelihood of experiencing plantar fasciitis.
• Achilles Tendinopathy: Tendons, especially the Achilles, can get injured if they can’t handle the exerted load. Symptoms include pinpointed tenderness, a “warm-up effect” where pain decreases during a run, post-run discomfort, and recurring pain after resuming runs post-rest.
• Stress Fractures: Stress fractures are caused from multiple factors including training overload and poor technique. A stress fracture is a small crack in the bone and presents with persistent pain which is aggravated by running. The most common sites for stress fractures in runners are the tibia and foot. These injuries can often be mis-diagnosed as shin splints so getting an examination from a running physio at Robina Physio on the Gold Coast is highly recommended if you are experiencing shin or foot pain from running.

Factors Increasing Injury Risk:

• Mis-managed training loads: Arguably the most significant risk factor, poor load management refers to how much running you undertake. Many who visit our clinic fall into the ‘overtrained’ category. Overtraining happens when your body hasn’t had the chance to adapt to the volume of running you’re doing, leading to injuries. It’s a delicate balance between building endurance and managing your running load. See my previous load management blog HERE.
• Changes in Footwear and/or Technique: It’s common for runners to experience discomfort after switching to a new pair of shoes. Even if the new pair is of the same model and make, the change can introduce a risk. It’s vital to break in new shoes gradually before committing to long runs. You also need to be careful when adjusting your technique. Small changes can drastically transfer forces to new muscles, tendons and bones. This can easily lead to injury if you don’t also adapt your training loads during this time.
• Inadequate Strength: Strength training plays a vital role in injury prevention. A strong body can handle more stress and protect itself better as your tissues can improve their tolerance to the high impacts involved with running. Some of our joints and tendons experience upwards of 4 times your body weight every stride. Doing a full body strength session that incorporates running specific lower limb exercises (e.g. lunges and step ups) is a must, and don’t forget that core strength.
  
• Excessive Muscle Tightness: Running tends to load specific muscles more than others (e.g. calf, quadriceps, hamstrings, gluts and TFL). Overtime these muscles can easily become pathologically tight leading to imbalance and pain. Making you incorporate some mobility work into your training program either with some stretching, foam rolling and/or massage. Getting some massage and dry needling from a Gold Coast Running Physio at Robina Physio will help considerably with this.

How to Stay Injury Free:

• Structured Training Plans: Planning is very important in load management and decreasing overuse injuries. Gradually increasing your volumes and strategically adding intensity will make your training more effective and minimise your injury risk. Try to aim for an increase in volume of approximately 10-15% per week, any higher and your injury risk skyrockets.
• Add Resistance Training: The age-old debate about whether distance runners should incorporate strength training rages on in some communities. But the evidence is clear that strength training is key to preventing and treating injuries. It has also been shown to improve running performance, so really, it’s a no brainer in my book. Adding strength training 2-3 times per weeks can be a huge boost. Try working your entire body in a session and include some more running specific exercises that use “split type stances” e.g. lunges, step ups and single leg deadlifts.
• Early Intervention: Early detection and timely professional intervention can hasten recovery. Prolonged neglect only exacerbates the injury, making recovery more challenging. Even if it only feels like a small niggle get in and see our Gold Coast Running Physios at Robina Physio straight away for prompt and effective treatment to keep you running harder and longer.

At Robina Physio on the Gold Coast our mission surpasses mere injury diagnosis and treatment. After a comprehensive assessment, we focus on a swift, effective rehabilitation process to get you back on track. Our multifaceted approach includes hands-on treatments, tailored exercise programs, and structured return-to-running plans.

Remember, as Physiotherapists, our goal isn’t just recovery; it’s prevention. We’re deeply invested in injury prevention, frequently conducting running assessments to help avid runners remain injury-free.

If you’re suffering with an injury or need guidance to prevent injuries and set up a training plan, Contact Us on (07)55787233 or BOOK ONLINE with our expert Physiotherapists today! Stay safe, keep running!

Neck Pain

By Aaron Woolley, Physiotherapist.

Neck pain (NP) is a prevalent condition that affects a significant portion of the global population. Studies suggest that approximately two-thirds of the population will experience neck pain at some point in their lives. The prevalence of NP varies across different studies, with mean reported estimates indicating 7.6% for point prevalence and 48.5% for lifetime prevalence. This condition is more commonly observed among women, individuals suffering from anxiety or depression, and office workers with poor ergonomic positions. To effectively address neck pain, it is crucial to understand its anatomy, potential causes, and available physiotherapy treatments.

Anatomy of the Neck

The neck is a highly complex structure composed of bones, joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and nerves. It consists of seven bones, C1 to C7, which make up the cervical vertebrae. These bones articulate with each other with the intervertebral disc at the front and facet joints at the rear.

There are numerous large and powerful muscles supporting the neck, including the trapezius, sternocleidomastoid, levator scapulae, splenius capitis and cervicis and deep neck flexors. These muscles facilitate gross motor movements in the neck as well as provided postural control and support. Any condition involving these muscles and tendons can be a strong pain generator and severely impact cervical spine mobility.

The cervical spine nerves, a set of eight nerves (C1 to C8), provide functional control and sensation to various body parts based on their respective spinal levels. Compression or irritation of these nerves can lead to pain and tingling sensations, often felt in the upper limb or shoulder girdle.

Common Causes of Neck Pain

1. Muscle Pain: Overuse of neck muscles due to poor posture, prolonged sitting, or incorrect ergonomics is a leading cause of neck pain. Strained neck muscles can be painful and restrict motion.
2. Muscle Imbalance: Focusing excessively on training the upper trapezius muscles, neglecting the lower and mid traps, may lead to overstimulation of the upper traps, resulting in neck pain.
3. Osteoarthritis: As we age, the neck’s joints can become worn down, leading to conditions like osteoarthritis. Deterioration of cartilage between vertebrae and the formation of osteophytes can impact range of motion and cause pain.
4. Nerve Compression: Herniated disks or osteophytes in the vertebrae can press on the nerves branching out from the intervertebral foramen, causing pain and discomfort.
5. Injuries: Motor vehicle accidents and sporting injuries, especially those resulting in whiplash, can strain the soft tissues of the neck, leading to pain and reduced mobility.
6. Diseases: Certain diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, meningitis, or cancer can also contribute to neck pain.

Managing Neck Pain

At Robina Physio on the Gold Coast, we offer effective strategies for managing neck pain and improving the overall health of the neck and surrounding structures. Here are some essential physiotherapy techniques:

1. Therapeutic Exercises: A physiotherapist can design a personalised exercise programs to strengthen weak neck muscles, improve flexibility, and correct muscle imbalances. These exercises may include neck stretches, range of motion exercises, and strengthening routines.
2. Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques, such as massage, joint mobilisation, and trigger point therapy, can help alleviate muscle tension and therefore pain and mobility.
3. Postural Correction: Proper posture can play a crucial role in reducing pain. A physiotherapist can assess your posture and provide guidance on maintaining correct alignment during various activities.
4. Ergonomic Recommendations: For office workers, optimising workspace ergonomics is essential. A physiotherapist can suggest adjustments to your workstation setup to reduce strain on the neck and promote better posture.
5. Heat and Cold Therapy: Applying heat or cold packs to the affected area can help reduce inflammation, relieve pain. If you have a spasmed muscle, opt for heat most of the time.
6. Dry Needling and Acupuncture: Dry needling has been shown by research and in the clinical setting to be highly effective for managing pain. The main aim of this technique is to release your tight muscles and restore pain free range of motion as quick as possible.

Neck pain is a prevalent condition that can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. With the help of a skilled physiotherapist, like those at Robina Physio on the Gold Coast, you can implement a personalised treatment plan to alleviate your symptoms, improve mobility, and prevent future occurrences of neck pain.

The Physiotherapists at Robina Physio on the Gold Coast are experts with additional training in the management of neck pain and dysfunction. If you’re struggling with neck pain please don’t hesitate to Contact Us on (07) 5578 7233 or BOOK ONLINE.

Dry Needling and Acupuncture

By Leigh McCutcheon & Dr Wayne Hing, Physiotherapist.

The effectiveness of western acupuncture and dry needling is seen every day in clinic, so it’s good to see the growing evidence for its use. In the past year since Leigh McCutcheon of Robina Physio on the Gold Coast and Dr Wayne Hing of Bond University on the Gold Coast collaboratively wrote Physio ‘dry needling’ and acupuncture – what’s the difference and what does the evidence say? for The Conversation, almost 400 RCTs in dry needling have been published and almost ten fold of that for acupuncture directly influencing clinical practice and associated outcomes.

Physiotherapists are increasingly offering needling therapies in addition to their standard care. Many Australian physiotherapists in private practice now offer dry needling or Western medical acupuncture as part of a treatment approach.

Is it just a fad or does science support it?

Needling, three ways

Physiotherapists can be trained to use dry needling, Western acupuncture and/or traditional acupuncture.

Dry needling involves penetrating the skin with needles to altered or dysfunctional tissue in order to improve or restore function. This often involves needling muscle trigger points to activate a reflexive relaxation of the muscle.

Western acupuncture uses traditional needling meridians (the ancient idea of energy channels through the body) and trigger points. But these ideas are applied to Western understandings of anatomy. In Western acupuncture, points are stimulated to create local tissue changes, as well as spinal and brain effects. The goal is to trigger pain-relieving chemicals, muscle activation or relaxation.

Even though traditional acupuncture points are used with this style of needling, Western acupuncture is not viewed as traditional Chinese medicine.

Traditional acupuncture uses meridian lines or other points based on traditional Chinese medicine assessment methods and approaches.

All physiotherapists trained in either acupuncture or dry needling meet safety standards which are viewed as within scope by the Australian Health Practitioners Regulatory Agency and the Physiotherapy Registration Board. These standards cover the level of training required, registration to practice and safety standards that include needle safety and hygiene to protect the public.

Minor reported side effects related to acupuncture including pain and bleeding or bruising from needle insertion are fairly common. But major adverse events – pneumothorax (collapsed lung), excessive bleeding, prolonged aggravation – are rare.

What’s needling good for?

Research into the effectiveness of acupuncture and dry needling is variable. Some studies show comparable results between dry needling and acupuncture, while others show more favourable results for one or the other depending on the condition being treated.

A review that assessed the effects of acupuncture and dry needling for the treatment of low-back pain found that it is a useful add-on therapy when combined with manual therapy, activity modification and exercise prescription.

For migraine and tension headaches, experts say acupuncture seems to reduce the frequency and intensity of attacks – though more research is needed to compare it to other treatments.

Acupuncture and dry needling may reduce pain and improve function for people with neck pain. A systematic review found significant differences between acupuncture and “sham acupuncture” (which is performed away from acupuncture points) when used to treat certain types of chronic pain. However, some research only shows small and temporary relief for neck pain with dry needling.

Results from randomised control trials support the use of needling for shoulder pain, tennis elbow and osteo arthritic knee pain. But a recent systemic review of research reported only weak evidence to support needling to treat plantarfasciitis and chronic ankle instability.

Not just for sporting injuries

Similarly, small randomised control trials have shown acupuncture and dry needling might reduce problematic jaw pain (temporo mandibular disorder) and improve mouth opening.

Systematic reviews have reported needling and acupuncture were safe and effective recommendations for the treatment of broad conditions of tendinopathy (the breakdown of collagen in tendons) and fibromyalgia (chronic pain in the muscles and bones).

For women’s health, acupuncture has been shown to be effective for reducing pain with periods, compared to no treatment or non-steroidal pain relief medications – but the research had design limitations.

Though widely used in pregnancy, research into the use of acupuncture to induce labour reports it may increase satisfaction with pain management and reduce pain intensity. But it may have little to no effect on the rates of caesarean or assisted vaginal birth.

In summary, it appears needling techniques – whether dry needling or acupuncture – generally show positive effects over no treatment or “sham” treatments, but more research and high quality trials are needed.

Just one part of a treatment program

Needling may be useful as part of multimodal care – that is, when more than one treatment is used in conjunction to treat a problem.

Physiotherapists may combine needling therapies with exercise prescription, hands-on care including massage, mobilisations and manipulations, and taping techniques. They may also employ therapies that apply external energy such as ultrasound, laser, transcutaneous (under the skin) electrical nerve stimulation and biofeedback.

Finally, while the various needling techniques all use a filiform needle (with a solid filament as opposed to a hollow bore needle), the styles with each can be quite different. Ask what style of needling is being employed to treat you, and if you have a history of finding one style works better for you, discuss this with your practitioner.

Are you struggling with pain and ready to try adding Dry Needling and Acupuncture to your treatment? The Physiotherapists at Robina Physio on the Gold Coast are industry leaders in providing Dry Needling and Western Acupuncture treatments as well as training other health professionals in it use clinically. Please don’t hesitate to Contact Us on (07) 5578 7233 or BOOK ONLINE.