How Dry Needling Can Help with Severe Knee Pain from Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) affects many joints, including the knees. It can result in intense pain and swelling. It significantly impacts one’s quality of life. Dry needling therapy in Grande Prairie offers a variety of treatments to help manage and alleviate the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS), or dry needling, is an effective therapy to relieve pain and improve mobility for individuals with rheumatoid Arthritis. In this post, we’ll explore how dry-needling therapy can help with severe knee pain caused by RA.

What exactly is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis is an autoimmune condition. By this condition, the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its tissues, primarily targeting the synovium—the lining of membranes surrounding joints. This results in chronic inflammation that can lead to joint damage over time. 

It leads to inflammation, which can gradually damage joints. RA typically affects joints, but it can also affect other organs.

Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis include:

• Joint Pain and Stiffness: It is especially noticeable in the morning or after prolonged periods of inactivity.
• Swelling: Inflammation leads to swelling in the affected joints.
• Fatigue: Continuous feelings of tiredness and low energy levels.
• Fever: Sometimes, a mild fever may occur.
• Loss of Function and Mobility: It challenges the free movement of the joints.

Causes and Risk Factors

The reason for Rheumatoid Arthritis is unknown, but several factors may contribute:

• Genetics: A family history of rheumatoid arthritis increases the risk.
• Environmental Factors: Smoking, exposure to asbestos or silica.
• Hormones: Rheumatoid arthritis is more common in women, suggesting a hormonal link.

The Role of Dry Needling in Managing Rheumatoid Arthritis Knee Pain

Physiotherapists use dry needling in Grande Prairie to relieve pain and muscle tension for rheumatoid arthritis conditions. This method involves inserting thin, sterile needles into specific muscle trigger points. Here is a detailed look at how dry needling therapy works and its benefits for managing knee pain associated with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA).

How Dry Needling Works

Trigger Points

Trigger points, known as tight bands or knots within a muscle, cause pain and restrict movement. They often develop due to muscle overuse, stress, or injury. Rheumatoid arthritis causes constant inflammation and joint stress in the affected area.

• Identification: Physiotherapists identify these trigger points through palpation and patient feedback. They often feel like small, tense nodules in the muscle.
• Needling: The therapist can release the muscle tension by inserting the needle into the trigger point. This process may cause a local twitch response, a brief muscle contraction followed by relaxation.

Neuromuscular Effects

Inserting needles into the muscle can stimulate nerves, leading to beneficial neuromuscular effects.

• Endorphin Release: Needling can prompt the body to release endorphins, which are natural pain-relieving substances. It can reduce pain levels in the targeted area.
• Neurotransmitter Regulation: The needles regulate the levels of neurotransmitters and chemicals that transmit signals in the nervous system. This regulation can help reduce pain and improve muscle function.

Improved Blood Flow

One of the benefits of dry needling is the improvement of blood flow in the targeted area.

• Nutrient Delivery: Enhanced circulation means oxygen and nutrients are delivered to the muscles and tissues, promoting healing and reducing inflammation.
• Waste Removal: Improved blood flow also helps remove metabolic waste products from the muscles, reducing pain and stiffness.

Benefits of Dry Needling for Knee Pain from RA

1. Pain Relief: Dry needling can significantly reduce knee pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis by targeting and releasing muscle trigger points. The reduction in muscle tension helps alleviate the pressure on the inflamed joints.
2. Improved Mobility: Decreased pain and muscle tightness result in better joint mobility and function. Patients experience an improved range of motion in their knees.
3. Enhanced Healing: Increased blood flow and reduced inflammation support the body’s natural healing processes. It leads to quicker recovery times and better overall joint health.
4. Non-Pharmacological: Dry needling offers a drug-free alternative to pain management. It is particularly beneficial for those who prefer to minimize medication use due to side effects or personal preference.

What to Anticipate During a Dry Needling Session

The experienced physiotherapists ensure a safe and effective dry-needling experience. Here is what patients can expect during a session:

• Assessment: First, a thorough evaluation of the patient’s medical history, symptoms, and affected areas will done to determine whether dry needling suits the patient’s condition.
• Preparation: The therapist will explain the procedure, including what the patient can expect to feel during and after the treatment.
• Treatment: Thin needles get inserted into the identified trigger points. Patients may feel mild discomfort or twitching as the needle activates the muscle.
• Aftercare: Post-treatment advice may include gentle exercises, hydration, and rest. The physiotherapist will provide personalized guidance based on the patient’s condition.

Embracing Dry Needling for Rheumatoid Arthritis Knee Pain Relief

Dry needling therapy is an effective technique for managing severe knee pain caused by Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). Those struggling with rheumatoid arthritis knee pain should consider exploring this therapeutic option at Junction Point Physical Therapy Clinic—the team of skilled physiotherapists dedicated to helping patients improve mobility.

Don’t let knee pain from rheumatoid arthritis hold you back. Contact Junction Point Physiotherapy today to learn more about dry needling In Grande Prairie and how it can help you. Schedule your consultation with them for a pain-free life.