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Mastering Dry Needling for the Quadratus Lumborum (QL)

At Vertex PT Specialists, we pride ourselves on staying at the forefront of physical therapy techniques. In our latest video, Brandon Vaughn, PT, DPT, OCS, CSCS, demonstrates and instructs on the proper technique for dry needling the Quadratus Lumborum (QL)—a vital treatment for addressing low back pain and dysfunction.

Check out the video below to see Brandon guide you through this advanced dry needling technique step by step:

What Is Dry Needling?

Dry needling is a powerful treatment designed to relieve muscle pain, trigger points, and movement restrictions. By using thin, sterile needles, physical therapists can target specific muscle groups, leading to:

  • Improved Circulation: Enhances the healing process by increasing blood flow.
  • Pain Relief: Releases tension in tight muscles.
  • Enhanced Mobility: Restores proper function and range of motion.

Why Focus on the QL?

The Quadratus Lumborum is a deep-seated muscle located in the lower back. Dysfunction in the QL can lead to:

  • Persistent low back pain
  • Limited hip mobility
  • Referred pain to the glutes or pelvis

Brandon Vaughn’s demonstration highlights how precise dry needling can effectively alleviate QL-related symptoms, making it an invaluable tool in physical therapy.

About Brandon Vaughn

Brandon Vaughn, PT, DPT, OCS, CSCS, is a seasoned physical therapist and the owner of Vertex PT Specialists. With a wealth of experience and advanced certifications, Brandon specializes in helping patients achieve optimal recovery and performance. In this video, he shares his expertise to empower other therapists and educate patients about effective treatment options.

Why Choose Vertex PT Specialists?

At Vertex PT Specialists, our team of highly trained therapists uses evidence-based techniques to ensure the best outcomes for our patients. Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain or recovering from an injury, we’re here to help.

Learn More or Book an Appointment

Want to know more about dry needling and how it can benefit you? Contact us today at info@vertexpt.com or call 803-973-0100 to schedule your appointment.

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TMJ Dysfunction Case Study

Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction Case Study

14 year old male baseball player presented to Vertex with a chief complaint of left sided jaw pain that occurred after being hit on the chin by a ground ball at practice.  Additionally, he complains of his jaw “locking” and “clicking” with end range mouth opening, specifically while eating.

Clinical Exam:

Palpable Click with opening and 25mm left mandibular deviation (ipsilateral)

Apical breathing pattern

Decreased left upper cervical rotation (+ left cervical flexion rotation test)

Tenderness to palpation left masseter and left medial pterygoid with patient reported familiar pain

 

Treatment:

HVLAT directed to bilateral C1/C2 with + cavitations.

Upper and mid thoracic HVLAT

DN with electrical stimulation to left masseter, medial pterygoid, and joint capsule.

Manual TMJ distraction

Home Exercise Program:

Cervical SNAGs, cervical retraction with over-pressure applied to maxilla, postural resets, diaphragmatic breathing

Patient Education:

Postural considerations; specifically with school and smart phone use consisting of spending less time in forward head posture in order to minimize mandibular retraction.

Result:

Chief complaint of “click” and “locking” resolved within session. 25mm deviation reduced to <5mm.  Patient followed up 6 weeks later and maintained treatment effect.

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