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Dry Needling

Dry Needling for Muscular Pain

Discover the transformative benefits of Dry Needling, a highly effective technique that harnesses the power of fine needles to target trigger points in muscles, providing relief from pain, improving flexibility, and enhancing muscle function. At Bodyworks Physical Therapy, we offer this cutting-edge approach to individuals seeking advanced solutions for muscular discomfort.

What is Dry Needling?

Dry Needling is a highly effective technique that uses a very fine needle without any medication to relax trigger points in muscles. Points are the “knots” or tight bands you can feel within muscles that can contribute to pain, decreased flexibility and decreased muscle function. If other modes of treatment have not been effective in the past at reducing your muscular pain, consider Dry Needling.

What is the difference between Dry Needling and Acupuncture?

While both Dry Needling and Acupuncture use the same tool, a solid filament needle, the principles of Dry Needling are not based on stimulating “channels or meridians” to restore “a balance of energy” like Acupuncture. Rather, Dry Needling utilizes the needle to penetrate skin and stimulate trigger points and connective tissues for the management of pain and movement problems.

Who Can Benefit from Dry Needling?

  • Fibromyalgia
  • Neck/Back Pain
  • Chronic Pain/Injuries
  • Headaches
  • Muscle Spasms
  • Shoulder Pain
  • Elbow Pain
  • Hip/Knee Pain
  • Muscle Strains
  • Contractures
  • Adhesions
  • Whiplash from Auto Accidents
  • Sports Injuries and many more

Does Dry Needling hurt?

Our sterile, disposable needles are very thin. Most patients do not even feel the needle go in. When the needle is inserted into the injured tissue, a twitch response may be felt. Patients have described this as an aching or cramping sensation. These sensations are perfectly normal and even desirable.

How will I feel after my Dry Needling treatment?

This will vary, but many patients experience immediate relief of their symptoms and an increase in range of motion. Soreness or mild bruising may occur, but is not harmful.

Will I continue to do exercises or receive other treatments?

Yes, your customized physical therapy program at Bodyworks will still incorporate traditional physical therapy methods including manual therapy, stretching, strengthening and posture training.

Still have questions about how dryneedling works or if it’s the right option for you?

Contact our team today to learn more and schedule your therapy session.

Saw Brecca for dry needling. She was informative, explaining the whole process and what to expect. I felt very comfortable and incredibly happy I tried it out. I’ll definitely be back and would highly recommend her.

- Allison Conn

Meet Our Dry Needling Experts

Headshot of Drew Zimmerman, PT, DPT, a physical therapist at Bodyworks Physical Therapy in Fargo, North Dakota

Drew Zimmerman

PT, DPT

Physical Therapy doing a dry needling technique on a patient's neck

Further Reading on Dry Needling

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