What is Dry Needling?
Dry needling is a physical therapy technique used to treat pain and movement impairments. The technique uses a thin, “dry” needle (one without medication or injection) to treat different musculoskeletal conditions, such as neck pain, back pain, shoulder pain, tennis elbow, carpal tunnel syndrome, headaches, knee pain, hip tendinopathies, and plantar fasciitis.
Dry Needling is not acupuncture. It is a part of modern Western medicine principles supported by research. Our dry needling physical therapy specialists are well educated and carefully trained.
How Does Dry Needling Work?
Trigger point dry needling helps to stimulate tissue healing for chronic conditions so that the affected muscle can become strong and healthy again. Studies have shown that post-needling tissues tend to be strengthened and increasingly parallel. In addition, there are less inflammatory markers in the painful area.
Needling is typically coupled with other forms of physical therapy as part of a larger treatment plan. Techniques used in conjunction with dry needling may include joint mobilization or manipulation, IASTYM, and exercise.
Are There Any Side Effects?
Dry needling can cause temporary pain and discomfort during and after a treatment session (usually 60-70% of patients). Depending on the treatment site, any pain experienced is usually mild in nature—typically lasting only 24 hours. Minor bleeding or bruising occurs in 15-20% of patients after a needling session. Serious side effects such as pneumothorax and damage to internal organs occurs very rarely (less than 0.01% of treatments).
Our clinic only utilizes single-use, disposable needles. Please contact us to learn more, and feel free to discuss questions and concerns with your therapist prior to treatment.
