Are you experiencing tight muscles, chronic pain, or limited mobility that just won’t go away? If so, dry needling may be the solution you’ve been searching for. This specialized technique, performed by our licensed physical therapists, targets painful trigger points and helps relieve tension deep within the muscles.
At RX Physical Therapy, we often meet patients who are curious (or a little nervous) about dry needling. Rest assured—this is a safe, effective, and evidence-based therapy that can be a game-changer in your recovery.
What is dry needling and how does it work?
Dry needling involves inserting a very thin, sterile needle into specific areas of muscle tissue known as “trigger points.” These are tight bands within a muscle that can cause pain, weakness, or limit range of motion. By stimulating these points, dry needling helps release tension, promote blood flow, and improve your body’s natural healing response.
Unlike acupuncture, which follows traditional Chinese medicine principles, dry needling is rooted in Western anatomical and neurophysiological science. It’s typically used as part of a larger physical therapy treatment plan to relieve pain and improve function.
What conditions benefit from dry needling?
Dry needling is especially effective for:
- Neck and back pain
- Shoulder pain and rotator cuff issues
- Sciatica and low back pain
- Headaches and migraines
- Tendonitis and overuse injuries
- Muscle strains and athletic injuries
- Chronic pain syndromes like fibromyalgia
Is dry needling painful?
Most patients report only mild discomfort during dry needling. You may feel a quick twitch or slight ache when the needle reaches the trigger point—but many people feel immediate relief afterward. Soreness can last for 24–48 hours post-treatment, similar to a good workout.
Is it safe?
Absolutely. Dry needling is performed by our licensed and highly trained physical therapists who follow strict safety and sanitation protocols. The needles are sterile, single-use, and FDA-approved for medical use.
How will dry needling fit into my treatment plan?
Dry needling is rarely used in isolation. At RX Physical Therapy, we combine it with other techniques like manual therapy, stretching, therapeutic exercise, and functional training to create a customized plan that addresses your unique needs and goals. It can be especially helpful in speeding up recovery for athletes, post-operative patients, and those with chronic pain.
If you’re ready to explore how dry needling can help relieve your pain and restore movement, contact RX Physical Therapy today at our Stevensville or Benton Harbor, MI locations. We’ll help you take the next step toward healing.
