Dry Needling 101

Dry needling is a therapeutic technique used by physical therapists to treat muscle pain and dysfunction by inserting thin, solid sterile needles into trigger points in the muscles. The primary goal of dry needling is to release tension, improve blood flow, and promote healing in affected areas. Unlike acupuncture, which is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine and focuses on balancing energy flow throughout the body, dry needling is based on Western medical principles and targets specific musculoskeletal issues. While both techniques use needles, their techniques, goals, and underlying philosophies are quite different.

Patients undergoing dry needling may initially experience a mix of sensations that can range from mild discomfort to a deep ache at the insertion point. Some describe feeling a twitch or cramp in the muscle, which is often seen as a sign of the treatment effectively reaching the trigger point. While some individuals may find this feeling a bit startling, many report a sense of relief and relaxation following the session. Overall, the experience varies, with many patients appreciating the immediate reduction in muscle tension and pain after the treatment.