Dry Needling
What Is Dry Needling?
Dry needling is a treatment that helps release tight muscle knots, called trigger points, that can cause pain and limit movement. A trigger point is a small, sensitive spot in a band of muscle fibers. During dry needling, a therapist uses very thin, flexible needles to target these areas and restore normal function.
Conditions We Treat
Dry needling may help relieve pain and improve movement for conditions such as:
- Headaches
- Jaw pain (TMJ)
- Muscle strains
- Joint pain
- Tendonitis or tendinosis
- Shoulder or hip bursitis
- Neck pain or muscle spasms
- Back pain or muscle spasms
- Acute or chronic pain
How Does It Work?
Dry needling affects the muscle in two ways:
- Mechanical effect: The needle stimulates the muscle, helping it relax and reducing pressure on nearby joints, nerves, and blood vessels.
- Healing response: The treatment triggers the release of natural pain-relieving chemicals and starts a new healing process.
When combined with therapeutic exercise, dry needling can reduce pain and improve function.
Is Dry Needling Painful?
Most people feel only mild discomfort during treatment. Some may notice temporary soreness or aching in the treated area. These symptoms usually go away within one to three days.
How to Get Started
A referral may be required by your insurance or you may be able to self-schedule. Call the outpatient rehabilitation location that works best for you to schedule an appointment.