Like many patients diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, Angela Arroyo lives with pain,
\n especially in her legs, making it difficult to walk and get a good night\u2019s sleep.<\/p>\n
The Tampa resident was diagnosed with MS a little more than a year ago. Her neurologist Dry needling involves inserting a thin needle, which is similar to those used in acupuncture, Arroyo was initially hesitant to participate, but she was looking for another option Within a week of starting the treatment, she noticed less pain and improved sleep. \u201cIt worked. It\u2019s actually helping me,\u201d said Arroyo, who has since completed the study. Chronic pain is one of the most common and complicated symptoms experienced by people
\n told her about an ongoing USF study exploring a new method to ease the muscle tightness
\n and lower extremity pain often caused by the disease. Led by Amir Tabatabaei<\/a>, assistant professor in the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine School of Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation
\n Sciences<\/a>, the study is exploring the effectiveness of dry needling.<\/p>\n
\n into myofascial trigger points, or contracted knots in skeletal muscle that reduce
\n blood flow and increase stiffness. Unlike predetermined points used in acupuncture,
\n dry needling practitioners use touch to locate the affected areas in the body, a skill
\n Tabatabaei said takes years to refine.<\/p>\n
\n that didn\u2019t come with the side effects of typical medication therapy, such as fatigue,
\n and ultimately decided to enroll.\u00a0<\/p>\n
\n Her husband also noticed a change in her walking.<\/p>\n
\n \u201cI hope it helps other people.\u201d<\/p>\n
\n with MS, yet Tabatabaei said existing treatments often fall short. Medication carries
\n risks, such as addiction. Exercise therapy, a common rehabilitation option, often
\n fails because the underlying pain prevents people from participating.<\/p>\n