Changes in Surface EMG Activity After Dry Needling Compared to Sham Needling

Dry needling (DN) is a myofascial treatment technique, in which a thin, solid filiform needle is inserted directly into the MTrP. During dry needling, local twitch responses (LTR) can be elicited. These are involuntary contractions of muscle fibers, leading to muscle relaxation, an increase in blood flow,recovery of the muscle metabolism and thus a reduction of pain and stiffness.

During sham needling, a solid, filiform needle is inserted in the skin surface at the trigger point location, without penetrating the fascia and muscle tissue.