• Most patients do not feel the insertion of the thin, solid filament needles.

• Sensations: When the needle hits a trigger point (a "knot"), it may elicit a "local twitch response," which can feel like a brief spasm or cramp.

• Aftermath: It is common to feel sore for 1-2 days afterward, similar to the feeling of an intense workout

• Approach: Dry needling is based on Western medicine, anatomical studies, and neurophysiology, focusing on releasing myofascial trigger points.

• Acupuncture: Based on traditional Chinese Medicine, aiming to balance the flow of energy (Qi) along meridians.

• Similarity: Both techniques use similar, sterile, single-use, thin needles.

• Safety: Yes, it is generally safe when performed by a trained, certified professional, such as a physical therapist.

• Side Effects: Potential side effects include temporary bruising, bleeding, or fatigue, which occur in less than 10% of patients.

• Effectiveness: It is highly effective for reducing chronic pain, improving mobility, and relaxing tightened muscles.

When inserting the needle into a trigger point, we are looking for a local twitch, meaning the muscle will have a sudden, brief contraction. The twitch is believed to be a spinal cord reflex. Research has shown the twitch is related to the subsequent pain relief.

The twitch is perceived to be an uncomfortable sensation during the treatment. The twitch will often have a sharp, contractile sensation. Common side effects of dry needling include pain during treatment, and soreness and bruising after treatment. Most people fully recover within 24-72 hrs. To accelerate recovery, we recommend light stretching, ischemic compression or low-load eccentric exercise

There are certain groups of people who shouldn’t receive dry needling. Providers don’t recommend the procedure for children under the age of 12 because it can be painful. You and your child will both need to provide consent, and you should consider other less invasive options first. Other groups who should consult with their physician before receiving dry needling include people who:

• Are pregnant.

• Aren’t able to understand the treatment.

• Are very afraid of needles (trypanophobia).

• Have compromised immune systems.

• Have just had surgery.

• Are on blood thinners.

A trigger point—commonly known as a muscle knot—is a tiny, hyper-irritable patch of muscle fibers that has become stuck in a contracted state and cannot relax. In simple terms, it is a small, hard, and extremely tender spot within a taut band of muscle.

• A "Knot" or Lump: To the touch, it feels like a small, hard nodule, bump, or tight band under the skin.

• High Sensitivity: Pressing on it causes sharp, local pain, often making you jump or wince (known as a "jump sign").

• Referred Pain: A key feature is that pressing the knot causes pain to radiate or spread to another area of the body. For example, a knot in your shoulder might cause a headache.

Trigger points are often described as a "muscle in crisis".

• Overuse or Injury: Overworking a muscle, repetitive strain (like sitting at a desk), or direct injury causes the muscle fibers to seize up.

• Energy Crisis: The knot is so tight that it chokes off its own blood supply, trapping waste products and starving the area of oxygen, which prevents it from relaxing

• Active Trigger Point: Causes constant pain and radiates pain to other areas.

• Latent Trigger Point: A dormant knot that doesn't hurt unless pressed, but can restrict movement and become active later. 

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Trigger points rarely go away on their own. They are treated by "releasing" the tension through: 

• Manual Therapy/Massage: Applying direct, sustained pressure to the knot.

• Dry Needling: Using acupuncture-like needles to force the muscle to release.

• Self-Care: Using foam rollers or tennis balls to apply pressure.