Background: Trigger points, which have been defined as highly localized, hyperirritable locations in a palpable taut?band of skeletal muscle fibers, have been identified with a variety of musculoskeletal conditions. The incidence of trigger point pain is high, with studies showing them as the primary source of pain in 30-85% of patients presenting in a?primary care setting or pain clinic. Dry needling has emerged as a possible intervention for trigger points, but its?effectiveness has not yet fully been determined.
Conclusion: A review of current literature suggests that dry needling is effective in reducing pain associated with lower?quarter trigger points in the short-term. However, the findings suggest that dry needling does not have a positive effect?on function, quality of life, depression, range of motion, or strength. Further high quality research with long-term follow-up?investigating the effect of dry needling in comparison to and in conjunction with other interventions is needed to?determine the optimal use of dry needling in treating patients with lower quarter trigger points.