The Neurophysiological Effects of Dry Needling: An Update of a Narrative Review

The interest in dry needling as a treatment option for myofascial pain has flourished for the last decades and will probably continue to do so, because multiple clinical effects can be attributed to this technique. However, evidence about the underlying physiological mechanisms of its effects is still underrepresented in scientific research and caution must be taken in generalizing results from acupuncture or animal research. This review offers an overview of the possible mechanisms involved in the pathophysiology of myofascial trigger points, that is, the formation of the taut band, the presence of local pain and inflammation, and the occurrence of referred pain. Subsequently, the effect of dry needling on these same aspects will be discussed. The goal of this article is to provide clinicians with the most up to date insights in the underlying (neuro)physiological mechanisms of trigger point dry needling and to identify the opportunities for further research on this topic.