DRY NEEDLING
What to expect
How does Dry Needling work?
The use of a small monofilament needle (same as an acupuncture needle), that is inserted through your skin directly into the tissue. They might move the needle around a little to try to get what’s called a local twitch response — a quick spasm of your muscle. This reaction can be a good sign that your muscle is reacting.
Some people feel improvement in their pain and mobility almost immediately after a dry needling session. For others, it can take more than one session.
More Commonly Asked Questions
What does dry needling do?
The insertion of the needle helps increase and/or improve blood supply to the tissue to help flush out the area and release the tension. The insertion of the needle can also help increase firing of nerve fibers that stimulate the brain to release endorphins (which is your body’s homemade pain medication for healing).
Does dry needling hurt?
You may also feel discomfort during the needling. Sometimes, people don’t feel the needle going in because it’s so small, but other times, people will feel a prick. When the needle is in the trigger point, it can be tender and cause a twitch response. Afterward, you may feel tightness or soreness near the insertion site which is your body’s sign that tissue is responding, but it’s important to keep moving and stretching.
What does dry needling do?
Dry needling may help relieve pain and increase your range of motion. Conditions that dry needling may treat include:
- Chronic pain
- Acute pain
- Tendinitis
- Headaches
- Repetitive motion disorders, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, golfer’s or tennis elbow.
Who shouldn’t get dry needling treatments?
There are certain groups of people who shouldn’t receive dry needling. Providers don’t recommend the procedure for children under the age of 12 because it can be painful. Other groups who should consult with their physician before receiving dry needling include people who:
- Are pregnant.
- Aren’t able to understand the treatment.
- Are very afraid of needles.
- Have compromised immune systems or are receiving immunosuppressive treatment.
- Have just had surgery.
- Are on blood thinners.