Dry Needling
Feel Better and Move Easier with Dry Needling
Target pain and muscle tension at the source.
Dry needling is a modern, evidence-based treatment used by physical therapists to help relieve muscle pain and improve movement. It involves placing a thin, sterile needle into specific areas of muscle, called trigger points, that are tight, tender, or causing referred pain. These areas often feel like “knots” that just won’t release, no matter how much you stretch or massage. Dry needling helps reset the muscle, relieve tension, and restore normal movement.
Who Might Benefit from Dry Needling?
Dry needling can be helpful for a wide range of people, including those who are dealing with:
*Muscle pain, stiffness, or spasms
*Chronic tension or “knots” that limit movement
*Headaches related to tight muscles
*Back, neck, or shoulder pain
*Soreness due to overuse of a muscle
*Pain that hasn’t responded well to other treatments
It can be especially useful for people who feel like their muscles just won't “turn off,” or who experience pain that radiates from one area to another.
What Are the Benefits?
Dry needling targets the root of the issue—not just the symptoms. Many patients experience:
*Reduced muscle pain and tightness
*Improved range of motion
*Faster recovery from injuries or overuse
*Relief from nagging or recurring pain
*Better performance and function in daily life or athletics
It’s often used alongside other physical therapy treatments like stretching, manual therapy, or corrective exercises for even better results.
What to Expect During and After Treatment
The needle used is very thin and does not inject anything, hence the term "dry." You might feel a quick twitch or deep ache as the muscle responds to the needle, which may be followed by a sense of release. Muscle soreness can often occur afterward, similar to what you might feel after a workout, but it usually fades within a day or two. You may experience bleeding or bruising as common side effects as well. There are additional, more significant side effects that may occur as a result of dry needling, though are more rare, such as infection, lung puncture, or nerve irritation.
Treatments are always customized to your comfort level and goals, and your therapist will explain everything beforehand and answer any questions you may have.
Wondering if Dry Needling Is Right for You?
We’d be happy to answer your questions and discuss including it as part of your personalized treatment plan. Talk to your physical therapist to see how dry needling can help you move and feel your best.