What is Dry Needling?

Dry needling is a modality that is used, as part of a treatment plan, to alleviate pain and movement impairments. With this technique, a physical therapist inserts a thin filiform "dry needle” (a needle without medication)  into areas of a muscle to stimulate underlying myofascial trigger points and muscular and connective tissues that would otherwise be unreachable. 

Dry needling can release or inactivate trigger points (commonly referred to as “knots”) to relieve pain and improve range of motion. This release might be accompanied by a “twitch response” where the muscle quickly twitches as a common sign that the muscle is reacting positively to the treatment.  

Studies suggest that dry needling improves pain control and reduces muscle tension. Research findings also show that dry needling can normalize dysfunctions of the motor end plates, from which nerve impulses get transmitted to muscles. This can help speed up the patient's recovery to get back to their daily activities. 

Dry needling can be effectively utilized to help with many conditions such as:

• Joint pain or stiffness

• Neck, shoulder, and back pain 

• Tendon irritation (tendonitis) including golfers elbow and tennis elbow

• Hip or groin pain

• IT band syndrome or pain

• Knee pain

• Shin splints and calf pain

• Plantar fasciitis and foot pain

• Repetitive motion problems such as carpal tunnel syndrome

• Tension headaches and migraines

When choosing a physical therapist who is certified in dry needling, carefully consider the experience and skill of that therapist, as well as the environment in which this technique will be performed.  Bespoke Physical Therapy’s Doctor of Physical Therapy, Dr. Holli Utama, has been utilizing dry needling as part of her practice since 2013.  When a patient is interested in dry needling and Dr. Holli feels it will be beneficial, she is able to treat in a one-on-one environment where she can give you, your tissues, and your rehab goals her undivided attention.