Dry Needling: What You Need to Know

Dry needling is a treatment used by physical therapists and other healthcare providers to relieve muscle pain and improve movement. It involves inserting a very thin, sterile needle into tight or painful areas of muscle called trigger points. These spots can cause soreness, stiffness, or pain in other parts of the body.

Unlike acupuncture, which is based on traditional Chinese medicine, dry needling is grounded in modern anatomy and medical science.

How It Helps

Dry needling can:

• Release tight muscles and reduce tension

• Improve blood flow and healing

• Decrease pain by calming overactive nerves

• Improve flexibility, movement, and performance

It’s often combined with stretching, exercise, or manual therapy for the best results.

What to Expect

During treatment, your provider will locate tight or tender muscles and insert very fine needles into those areas. You might feel a small “twitch,” brief cramp, or dull ache — that’s a normal sign the muscle is releasing. 

Afterward, the area may feel sore (similar to a workout) for a day or two. Gentle movement, stretching, and hydration usually help this pass quickly. Many people notice reduced pain or improved mobility after just 1 session. 

Safety and Common Uses

Dry needling is safe when performed by a trained professional. Side effects are typically mild and temporary.

It may help with:

• Acute and chronic pain

• Headaches or migraines

• Sports or overuse injuries

• Muscle tightness or spasms

  If you have questions about whether dry needling is right for you, call us today.