Dry needling: Effects on activation and passive mechanical properties of the quadriceps, pain and range during late stage rehabilitation of ACL reconstructed patients.

Background: Dry needling (DN) is reported to decrease pain and improve functional movements yet the mechanisms remain unclear. Changes in muscle tone and other mechanical properties after DN could contribute to these findings but have not been investigated.

Objectives: Examine EMG and passive mechanical properties of the quadriceps muscle before and after DN.