Tired of living with aches and pains? Dry needling could help.
Dry needling is a proven method for treating several musculoskeletal issues, including acute and chronic injuries, overuse injuries, neck pain, headaches, back pain, sciatica, muscle spasms, muscle strains, tendinitis, knee pain, hip pain, shoulder pain, fibromyalgia, tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, and more.
Dry needling is a safe and effective method of treatment for reducing pain and muscle tension, while improving mobility.
What is dry needling?
Trigger point dry needling is a precise, targeted technique that works directly on affected muscles and trigger points. It’s a safe and effective alternative to other muscle-relaxing methods that can sometimes be more painful or irritating, such as deep tissue massage.
Dry needling helps reset biochemical and electrical pathways in the muscle, improving performance and helping you return to the activities you enjoy, pain-free.
Our certified physical therapists use this technique to reduce chronic pain, restore function and improve mobility and flexibility, supporting your overall recovery.
Dry needling vs. acupuncture
Although some people confuse the two, dry needling is not acupuncture. It uses a thin, non-hypodermic needle similar to those in acupuncture, but unlike acupuncture’s more superficial techniques, dry needling targets specific trigger points deep within the muscle. The depth and length of the needle depend on the location of each trigger point.
Research shows that mechanical stimulation of the needle at the trigger point can trigger biochemical changes that lead to muscle relaxation, improved function and pain relief.
Dry needling is based on modern scientific research of the musculoskeletal and neuromuscular systems. While it shares some similarities with acupuncture, dry needling follows principles of Western medicine and clinical research. Creating an environment that supports the body’s natural healing processes helps reduce pain and restore muscle function.
How dry needling works
Dry needling targets tight muscles and trigger points using a thin, sterile needle. This approach can:
- Release muscle knots and trigger points
- Reduce pain and tension
- Improve blood flow
- Relax tight muscles
- Restore function and mobility
By addressing the source of discomfort, dry needling supports faster recovery and helps you move more freely.
Will I experience discomfort with dry needling?
Most of our patients report little to no discomfort during dry needling treatments.
Our highly trained physical therapists know how to make the process as painless as possible. However, some patients may still experience a “twitch response” with the insertion of the needle. This is comparable to a quick muscle cramp or ache. The 24-48 hours following a dry needling treatment may also result in muscle soreness, which should go away on its own. Sore muscles can be treated at home by applying ice and/or heat packs and drinking plenty of fluids.
Benefits of dry needling
There is a large variety of musculoskeletal issues that can be treated with dry needling. When paired with our traditional exercise-based physical therapy treatments and advanced manual therapy techniques, we’ve found that the vast majority of our patients achieve the pain-free goals they set.
After conducting a comprehensive evaluation to assess the nature of your condition, our physical therapists will let you know if dry needling is the best course of treatment for you.
Dry needling can provide benefits such as:
- Fast pain relief
- Release of muscle tension and trigger points
- Improved range of motion and mobility
- Enhanced recovery and muscle performance
- Minimal side effects
We have used dry needling to treat several diverse conditions, including:
- Neck pain & headaches
- Shoulder pain
- Back pain
- Hip & leg pain
- Sports injuries
Schedule your dry needling session
Dry needling is a safe and effective treatment offered at Mountain Land Physical Therapy Partners to reduce pain, relieve muscle tension and improve mobility.
This targeted therapy can speed up recovery, helping you get back to your daily activities as quickly as possible.
If you’re seeking relief or want to learn more about how dry needling could benefit you, find a Mountain Land Physical Therapy Partners location near you in Utah, Idaho or Montana to learn how our dry needling services can support your recovery.
Frequently asked questions about dry needling
Does dry needling hurt?
Most patients feel little to no pain when the needle penetrates the skin. You may experience a brief twitch or muscle cramp when the needle reaches the targeted trigger point. Some muscle soreness can occur for at least 24 hours after treatment. Applying heat, staying hydrated, gentle stretching and keeping the muscles moving can help reduce any discomfort.
Is dry needling safe?
Your safety is our top priority. Dry needling is performed as a “clean technique,” with your skin sanitized and your therapist wearing gloves to minimize infection risk. The needles are sterile, individually packaged and discarded after use. Our therapists complete extensive training to earn their dry needling certifications.
What are the side effects of dry needling?
Common side effects include muscle soreness, fatigue and minor bruising. Our therapists provide guidance during your treatment to help you manage and minimize these effects.
Does my health insurance cover trigger point dry needling therapy?
Most health insurance plans do not currently cover dry needling. Contact us before starting treatment. We’ll check your coverage and explain our self-pay options.