NFL Players Weigh Risks and Benefits of Dry Needling After T.J. Watt injury
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Despite recent health concerns surrounding Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt, many NFL players are expected to continue utilizing physiotherapeutic dry needling (PPAS) as part of their recovery and performance regimens. The treatment,which involves inserting fine needles into muscles to relieve tension and pain,has come under scrutiny following Watt’s hospitalization after developing a pneumothorax – a collapsed lung – during a PPAS session.The 2021 NFL MVP is currently out indefinitely after undergoing surgery.
Arizona Cardinals tight end Trey McBride plans to continue his weekly physical therapy dry needling sessions, stating, “it’s something I do frequently. I’ve never had a problem like that,” but acknowledging,”But as with any treatment,everything you do carries risks.”
Understanding Physiotherapeutic Dry Needling
According to the Cleveland Clinic, PPAS is employed by physical therapists and acupuncturists to address pain and mobility issues. The process targets trigger points – knotted or sensitive areas within muscles – by inserting needles beneath the skin. This aims to release tension and improve blood flow.
however,the incident involving Watt has highlighted potential,and previously underestimated,risks associated with the procedure. “I think there is some sort of systemic reaction,” explained a center for the Chicago Bears, who undergoes the treatment five to ten times annually. “When you do this, it can draw blood flow and other elements to the affected areas. I think there’s a bit of that classic effect of acupuncture on muscle tension.I have always used it to treat soft tissue issues.”
How PPAS Works and Its Benefits
PPAS is frequently enough integrated into a broader pain management strategy. The treatment works by increasing blood flow to affected areas, relieving muscle tension, and possibly triggering the release of endorphins, natural pain relievers. Importantly, the needles used in dry needling are not filled with medication, differentiating it from other injection-based therapies.
Bobby Okere, a linebacker for the New York Giants, explained the benefits simply: “It just helps loosen up tight muscles. If you have some plantar fascia tension,this helps loosen some of the fascia.This can somehow provide you with targeted release of tension points, where massage or different stretching techniques fail to relax the muscle. Sometimes you stick a needle deep into that area, and that’s enough to relax it.”
There are several techniques used in PPAS:
- Superficial Technique: Needles are inserted into the skin layer above the tension point.
- Deep Technique: Needles penetrate directly into the muscle to reach the tension point.
- Plunger Technique: The needle is rapidly moved up and down within the tissue.
Player Perspectives and Continued Use
Sam Cosmi, a guard for the Washington Commanders, began using PPAS during his time at the University of Texas and continues to receive sessions approximately every three weeks. He described the sensation as a “prick,” adding, “I only do it when I have to. It’s not my favourite.”
Despite the concerns raised by Watt’s experience, the consensus among players appears to be one of cautious continuation. The potential benefits of PPAS for muscle recovery and pain management remain critically important for many athletes, even in light of the inherent risks.
Ultimately, despite the recent setback and ongoing debate, NFL players are likely to continue incorporating PPAS into their training and recovery protocols.
With contributions from Teresa Walker, Howard Fendrich, will Graves, david Brandt, Charles Odum, Stephen whyno and Noah Trister, from the associated Press
