What is Dry Needling and Can it Help with My Low Back Pain, Shoulder Pain, or Knee Pain?

Dry Needling is a highly effective form of Physical Therapy for the treatment of a multitude of musculoskeletal and neuromuscular conditions. It is not appropriate for all condition or pathologies and the use of the technique will be at the discretion of your physical therapist. 

How does it work?

Dry Needling is not acupuncture (traditional Chinese Medicine), it is based on neuroanatomy and modern scientific study of the musculoskeletal and neuromuscular systems. A very fine filament needle is inserted through the skin and into the deeper tissues that are considered trigger points to your pain. Dry needling works by causing a micro lesion within the pathological tissue thus breaking up shortened tissues, inhibiting a reflex arc from the nervous system to the tissue, normalizing the inflammatory response, and centrally mediating the pain. This mechanical and neuromuscular effect provides an environment that enhances the body’s ability to heal which ultimately reduces pain. 

What conditions can be treated?

Conditions included, but not limited to neck pain, back pain, shoulder pain, arm pain (tennis elbow, carpal tunnel, golfer’s elbow), headaches, to include migraines and tension-type headaches, jaw pain, buttock pain and leg pain (sciatica, hamstring strains, calf tightness/spasms). 

Are the needles sterile?

Yes, we only use sterile disposable needles.

Is the procedure painful?

The fine filament needled is very thin, solid, and flexibly, which allows for the needle to be pushed through the skin versus cutting the skin. This helps reduce any discomfort that may occur with the procedure. We strive to make the treatment virtually painless however at times a local twitch response of the muscle may be felt. When the needle is inserted into the pathological tissue the local twitch response sensation is normal and felt only momentarily. Many patients describe this twitch response as a little electric shock, cramp or an ache sensation. These sensations are perfectly normal and even a desirable response. Your PT will make every effort to make your experience comfortable and therapeutic. 

How will I feel after the Dry Needling treatment?

This will vary but many patients experience immediate relief of their symptoms and an increase in range of motion. Soreness can also be a common response from the needling but does not occur with all people. Some individuals may experience an immediate achiness or a delayed soreness with next day. The soreness, if present, will usually last 1-2 days, use of heat and light massage and movement will be beneficial. Mild bruising may occur at the needling sites and is more prevalent in certain parts of the body. Larger bruising may also occur, but is rare. Application of ice on the bruise will help the soreness and the skin discoloration will last several days but is not harmful.  It is uncommon but possible that the treatment may temporarily increase your symptoms. This is not usual but if this continues past the 1-2 days window, inform you PT to allow adjustment of you program to enhance your comfort next time. This does not mean that needling will not be beneficial to your condition.

Will I continue to do exercise or receive other treatments?

Yes, your personalized physical therapy program will still integrate traditional physical therapy methods including manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, endurance training, stabilization and posture training.   

How many treatments will I need?

This will depend on the category you fit in, which is determined by the state of the injury and your overall health. Remember we are attempting to cause mechanical and biomechanical changes without any pharmacological means. Therefore, we are looking for a cumulative response to break the pain cycle. Your PT will be able to give you more insight after your evaluation.  

What should I do to prepare for the treatment?

• Do not eat 30 minutes before the treatment.
• Be well hydrated but empty your bladder prior to treatment.
• Wear loose fitting clothing, shorts, or bathing suit for easy access to your painful areas.

What should/can I do after treatment, what should I avoid? 

Our recommendations vary depending on the amount of soreness you have and on the individual response to the treatment. Recommendations may include increasing your water intake, applying heat or ice over the area, gentle stretches and modifications of activities. You can see what our client says.   

Is Dry Needling treatment covered by my insurance?

This is a Physical Therapy treatment and is NOT acupuncture therefore your coverage of Dry Needling should correspond with your Physical Therapy benefits.  Not all medical or physical professionals are trained to perform the Dry Needling treatment technique. The physical therapist at BodyFit Physical Therapy has advanced training through the Integrative Dry Needling Institute and Kineticore. 

Call Cindy at BodyFit Physical Therapy to see if dry needling could help you! 

Call Cindy 860-507-7365 or email at cindy@bodyfitphysicaltherapy.com