Exploring Dry Needling: A Comprehensive Guide for Patients

At Victory Physical Therapy, we’re committed to offering innovative treatments to help our patients feel their best. One such therapy gaining popularity for its effectiveness is dry needling. If you’ve heard the term but aren’t quite sure what it involves, this comprehensive guide will explain the ins and outs of dry needling, its benefits, and what you can expect during a session.

Dry needling is a treatment technique used by licensed physical therapists to relieve muscle pain and dysfunction. It involves the insertion of very thin, filiform needles into specific areas of muscle, often called “trigger points.” These trigger points are hyper-irritable spots in the muscle that can cause pain locally or refer pain to other areas.

Despite the use of needles, dry needling is not the same as acupuncture. Acupuncture is rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine and focuses on energy flow, while dry needling is based on modern anatomy and neuroscience, targeting the source of muscle tension or pain.

When a needle is inserted into a trigger point, it can cause a “twitch response” in the muscle. This response is believed to release tension, improve blood flow, and reset the muscle to a healthier state. Dry needling can also help reduce inflammation, improve range of motion, and alleviate pain caused by conditions like chronic tension, sports injuries, or postural imbalances.

Some of the most common conditions treated with dry needling include back pain, neck pain, shoulder impingement, tendonitis, migraines, and plantar fasciitis. It can also be beneficial for athletes looking to recover faster or improve performance by addressing muscle imbalances and tightness.

During a dry needling session at Victory Physical Therapy, your therapist will assess your symptoms and identify areas of dysfunction. The needles are then inserted into the targeted muscles, often resulting in minimal discomfort. Some patients describe a dull ache, slight cramping, or a twitch when the needle activates the muscle, but this sensation typically subsides quickly. After treatment, you may experience some soreness, similar to how muscles feel after a workout, but this usually resolves within 24-48 hours.

Dry needling is a safe and effective technique when performed by a licensed and trained practitioner. While it’s not suitable for everyone, including those with needle phobias, blood disorders, or certain medical conditions, it’s a valuable option for many seeking relief from muscle pain and dysfunction.

If you’re curious about how dry needling might help you, the team at Victory Physical Therapy is here to answer your questions and determine if this treatment is right for you. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule an appointment. Your path to better movement and pain relief starts here!