Course Description

Core Concepts and Pain Science of Trigger Point Dry Needling

This webinar provides an evidence-informed foundation in the anatomy, physiology, and pain science underlying trigger point dry needling. Participants will explore the formation of myofascial trigger points, the energy crisis model, and the mechanisms responsible for local and referred pain. Emphasis is placed on understanding peripheral and central sensitization and their role in persistent pain and trigger point phenomena.

The course examines the neurophysiological effects of dry needling, including both local tissue responses and systemic nervous system effects. Participants will gain an appreciation for how dry needling influences the neuromuscular junction, inflammatory mediators, tissue perfusion, and pain modulation pathways. The webinar also reviews the physiology of referred pain and provides a framework for applying trigger point dry needling in a more sophisticated, evidence-based manner to improve clinical reasoning and patient outcomes.

Course Objectives

Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Define a myofascial trigger point and describe its clinical characteristics.
2. Explain the energy crisis model and the physiological mechanisms involved in trigger point formation.
3. Describe the anatomy and physiology of the neuromuscular junction and its relationship to motor end plate dysfunction.
4. Discuss the mechanisms responsible for local and referred pain associated with myofascial trigger points.
5. Differentiate between peripheral sensitization and central sensitization and explain their roles in chronic pain and trigger point referral patterns.
6. Identify the neurochemical and inflammatory processes involved in trigger point pain.
7. Describe the local physiological effects of dry needling, including tissue perfusion, neuromuscular junction modulation, and local twitch responses.
8. Explain the systemic effects of dry needling on the peripheral and central nervous systems.
9. Discuss the mechanisms by which dry needling influences pain modulation and tissue healing.
10. Apply core principles of pain science to improve clinical reasoning and treatment planning for patients with myofascial pain.