At Inspired Physiotherapy, we understand that no single treatment works for everyone. Your care depends on many factors, including your overall health, sleep, nutrition, activity level, goals, how long your symptoms have been present, and how your body responds to treatment. Because of this, we do not use a one-size-fits-all approach.
Instead, we use a combination of proven, evidence-based treatments that are carefully selected and tailored to your individual needs. One of the tools we may use as part of your physical therapy plan is dry needling. When performed correctly and for the right reasons, dry needling can be a very effective treatment.
What Is Dry Needling?
Dry needling is a skilled physical therapy intervention that requires advanced education and specialized training beyond standard physical therapy schooling. A health care professional performing dry needling must have a strong understanding of anatomy, safety considerations, potential risks, and proper technique.
Physical therapists are trained to perform dry needling when it falls within their scope of practice and after completing the required continuing education. Other licensed health care professionals, such as athletic trainers or chiropractors, may also perform dry needling only if they have completed appropriate training and certification and if the state allows that professional to practice this intervention.
Dry needling uses a very thin, clean needle (different from an injection needle). The length of the needle varies depending on the area being treated. The needle may be placed into:
- Tight or painful muscle tissue
- Trigger points (knots in the muscle)
- Scar tissue
- Joint Capsules
- Along nerve pathways
- Areas contributing to pain, limited movement, or muscle dysfunction
The goal is to reduce excessive muscle tension, improve blood flow, calm irritated tissues, and help the muscle and surrounding structures function more normally.
How Dry Needling Can Help with Pain
Tight muscles and trigger points can sometimes cause referred pain, meaning pain is felt somewhere other than where the problem actually starts.
For example:
- A muscle in the shoulder (such as the infraspinatus) can cause pain down the arm or into the hand that mimics nerve like pain.
- A muscle in the upper shoulder and neck (upper trapezius) can contribute to neck pain or headache-like symptoms.
By treating these problem areas directly, dry needling may help to:
- Reduce muscle tightness
- Decrease pain sensitivity
- Improve comfort and movement
- Increase range of motion
- Improve circulation to the area
- Allow other physical therapy treatments to work more effectively
Dry Needling as Part of a Complete Plan
Dry needling is not usually used on its own. It works best when combined with other physical therapy treatments, especially targeted exercises. These exercises help your body maintain improved muscle length, strength, and movement patterns after treatment.
This combined approach focuses on long-term improvement, not just temporary symptom relief.
Patient Education, Communication, and Consent
At Inspired Physiotherapy, your understanding and comfort matter. Before dry needling is performed, your therapist will explain the treatment, what you may feel during and after the session, and any precautions or risks. You will always have time to ask questions and decide whether this treatment is right for you.
Dry needling is only performed with your informed consent and by a trained health care professional who understands when, and when not, to use it safely and effectively.
