Dry Needling is a technique used by physical therapists for the treatment of pain and movement impairments. Dry needling is not acupuncture but does utilize small filiform needles similar to those used in acupuncture. The needles are inserted through the skin into areas of muscles to improve pain related to muscular trigger points. Trigger points are taught bands of skeletal muscle located in a larger muscle group. Trigger points are often very painful to the touch and can often refer pain to other parts of the body. By inserting a needle into the trigger point that otherwise wouldn’t be accessible, the therapist can help release the taught trigger point into relaxing which results in decreased pain and increased motion. Physical Therapists who perform dry needling are certified in dry needling after undergoing specific postgraduate education and training.
