Dry Needling + Eccentric Exercise for Tendon Conditions: Is It Effective?

A recent study (systematic review) by Emily Giorgi and colleagues looked at the effectiveness of dry needling and eccentric exercises for treating tendinopathies of various regions of the body. It was noted that approximately 70,000 Americans miss work annually due to tendon pain, which affects quality of life and creates disability.

7 studies were found in the systematic review to meet the inclusion criteria for this study. The authors concluded that there is moderate (grade B) evidence that dry needling + exercise (especially eccentric exercise) for tendon pain conditions improve pain and function in individuals with these painful conditions. It is of interest to note they found LIMITED evidence on SPECIFIC exercise activities combined with dry needling, so as we teach in AOPT Seminars, a “well-rounded” exercise approach, with adjunctive dry needling, is the BEST way to address tendinopathy-related pain.

For more information, reach out to Dr. Ron Pavkovich at ron@advantageptlex.com for more info on how AOPT Seminars can help you be the BEST clinician you can be!