What is dry needling?

Dry needling is a specialized treatment technique used in physical therapy to target myofascial trigger points—small, tight knots that form in muscles and can cause pain and discomfort. Unlike acupuncture, which is based on traditional Chinese medicine and focuses on balancing the body's energy flow, dry needling is grounded in Western medicine and aims to directly address neuromuscular issues.

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The procedure involves the insertion of thin, sterile acupuncture needles into the skin and muscle at these trigger points. The needle's entry into the trigger point can elicit a local twitch response, a brief contraction of the muscle fiber, which is a therapeutic response indicating the release of the knot. This release can help alleviate pain, reduce muscle tension, and improve function.

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Dry needling is often used in conjunction with other physical therapy techniques, such as manual therapy and exercise, to enhance treatment outcomes. It is particularly effective for conditions like chronic muscle pain, tension headaches, and overuse injuries. At Revival Recovery & Rehabilitation, our trained practitioners use dry needling as part of a comprehensive approach to care, tailored to each individual's needs and goals.