Dry needling is a physical therapy technique that uses thin, sterile needles to target tight muscles and areas of pain. By stimulating specific points within a muscle, it can help reduce tension, improve blood flow and mobility, and decrease pain. This allows patients to move more comfortably and get more out of their rehabilitation program.
How Is Dry Needling Different from Acupuncture?
Dry needling uses the same type of needles as acupuncture, but the two treatments are different. Dry needling is based on Western medicine and focuses on the musculoskeletal system. Acupuncture comes from traditional Chinese medicine and aims to balance the body’s flow of energy along pathways known as meridians.
Who Can Benefit?
Dry needling may help with:
- Tendon injuries, including rotator cuff impingement, Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, and tennis or golfer’s elbow
- Osteoarthritis
- TMJ disorders
- Migraines and tension headaches
- Scar tissue restrictions
It is typically one part of a complete physical therapy program, used alongside therapeutic exercise, manual therapy, and movement retraining.
Is It Safe?
Dry needling is generally considered low risk. The most common side effects are mild and temporary, such as soreness, minor bruising, or slight bleeding at the treatment site. Serious complications are uncommon. Your physical therapist will review your medical history, explain the risks and benefits, and confirm whether dry needling is safe and appropriate for you.
Call us today (360) 647-0444 to find out if dry needling is right for you.