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@heyjoe415 Hi Joe, thank you for replying. Yes, you are correct regarding my locked muscles. They are tight to the point I am in pain all day, every day, as soon as I get out of bed. Nothing I have tried over the past 3 years has done anything to release them. Laying on my back is the only way to get relief, and I am starting to have to lay down more every day. And now that is causing other pain issues, so I just can't catch a break.

I'm not sure what dry needling is, so I will be looking that up today. I have run out of ideas for myself, and I'm glad there are people like you out there to ask questions of.

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Replies to "@heyjoe415 Hi Joe, thank you for replying. Yes, you are correct regarding my locked muscles. They..."

You are very welcome Marc. Dry Needling uses a single-use, hair thin needle. The specialist (licensed to do this), inserts the needle into a tight muscle. This causes the muscle to contract/spasm, resulting in an increase of blood flow and a relief from the tightness.

Dry needling also softens the muscle fascia. These fascia surround all of our muscle fibers. They tend to dry out and lose their flexibility as we age. Dry needling targets these fascia and through the muscle contractions, releases them a bit. That's why regular use of dry needling is necessary. (I have this done every two weeks.)

It certainly sounds like your situation is a result/complication of your back surgery. That said, I have no idea how the surgery and your tight muscles are related. I would ask your Dr (although I'm sure you've done this) - or find the best physical therapists you can and discuss with them.

I'm sorry I don't have better answers for you Marc. Do get more information on dry needling. The needles are ultra-thin and usually don't sting like a blood draw. Occasionally the therapist hits something sensitive and there is brief pain. It's a worthwhile tradeoff for me.

And please don't give up! I admire your determination!

Joe