What is Dry needling?

Dry needling is a therapeutic technique in which a trained physical therapist inserts a sterile, thin, and flexible needle, known as a filament needle, directly into a muscle at a myofascial trigger point. There is no medication in the needle, hence it is referred to as “dry.” The needle generates a twitch response, which occurs when tight muscles twitch, or cramp and then relax. This response alters the trigger point to make it much less irritable.

Dry needling can be used for a variety of musculoskeletal issues including:

• Neck, back or shoulder pain

• Arm pain (tennis elbow, carpal tunnel, golfer’s elbow)

• Headaches (cervicogenic and tension-type)

• Jaw and dental pain

• Buttock and leg pain (sciatica, hamstring strains, calf tightness/spasms)

What are the benefits?

As part of your overall treatment plan, dry needling has many benefits. The procedure is inexpensive and generally considered safe. It carries a low risk of complications if performed by a trained provider.

Research shows dry needling can release your trigger points, which may help relieve your muscle pain and stiffness. Releasing your trigger points may also increase your flexibility and improve your range of motion.

For more information, or to schedule an appointment, call 561-263-5775.