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
@heyjoe415 Thank you again, Joe. I will definitely look into dry needling. I have worked with a couple of physical therapists since January, and I did receive help regarding strength, stretching, and breathing techniques. This is helping me move more, but unfortunately, it is not helping with the pain. It just seems if these muscles can be released, most of my problem will go away.
I'm not giving up, I have to keep looking, as someone, somewhere has to have an idea what to do.