Dry Needling at C.H.O.O.S.E.

Using the dry needling technique to stimulate a trigger point assists in bringing blood supply to the area, releasing tension. Making a small lesion in the muscle can also reduce irritation and encourage natural healing, as this process signals the body to provide healing cells and endorphins (i.e., natural pain medication) to the location. When the physical therapist identifies a trigger point, they will insert a thin needle through the skin to reach the muscle. They may then maneuver the needle to observe a “twitch response,” or quick muscle spasm, which displays a positive muscular reaction to the dry needle. Improvements in mobility and/or pain depend on the individual patient: benefits may be immediate or show up after multiple sessions.

Prior to treatment, you will meet with a physical therapist certified in dry needling, discuss your medical history, and undergo a physical examination. Then, you will discuss whether dry needling is an appropriate treatment for you. Some factors that might exclude you from candidacy include pregnancy, trypanophobia (fear of needles), use of blood thinners, compromised immune systems, or recent surgeries. If you are approved for dry needling treatment, the physical therapist will explain the process and answer any questions you may have. 

During treatment, dress in loose-fit clothing that provides easy access to the treatment area. You will be taken to a private room and be placed in a comfortable and appropriate position for dry needling treatment. The treatment area will be sterilized and the needles prepared. These needles are single-use and disposed immediately after the treatment session. The physical therapist will “palpate” (feel with their hands) the area to identify the trigger point, then place the needle using a guide tube for accuracy. This guide tube may be removed after the needle pierces the epidermis, or top layer of skin. 

The dry needling technique used depends on the provider and will be discussed with you prior to treatment. Two common techniques include (1) “superficial” needling, where the needle is inserted to the bottommost layer of the skin (i.e., subcutaneous tissue) just above the trigger point and (2) “deep” needling, where the needle is inserted further into the muscle, penetrating the trigger point. The length of time the needle remains in place varies according to technique as well, ranging anywhere from ten seconds to around 20 minutes. The number of needles also differs depending on the condition, provider, and patient response to dry needling. 

Following treatment, the needles will be discarded, and the physical therapist will observe the treatment area. You may observe slight bruising near the area (up to a week) or increased muscle soreness (lasting 24-36 hours post-treatment). It’s important to drink water to stay hydrated and continue moving the target area even with soreness and bruising.