If you have seen dry needling on a clinic’s service list and quietly wondered what it actually means, this article is for you. Whether you are managing pain, recovering from an injury, or helping an older parent get back to daily life, here is a clear, jargon free explanation of the technique and how it fits into a broader physical therapy plan.
The Basic Idea Behind Dry Needling
Total Rehab Solutions’ dry needling page describes dry needling, also known as intramuscular stimulation (IMS) and trigger point dry needling (TDN), as the insertion and repetitive manipulation of a “dry,” solid filament needle in a trigger point. The needle carries no medication. The aim, in the page’s words, is to relax myofascial trigger points and restore normal muscle tone, length, coordination, function and strength.
The page explains that the needle can produce an involuntary spinal cord reflex called a local twitch response, and that the therapist can then train the muscles to work with any newly gained pain free range of motion.
Which Conditions Does Dry Needling Help With?
The practice’s dry needling page lists conditions it has been used for, including head and neck pain such as whiplash and headaches, and shoulder pain such as rotator cuff problems. Whether it suits you depends on what is driving your symptoms, so it is worth asking at your evaluation.
Is Dry Needling the Same as Acupuncture?
No. According to the practice’s dry needling page, dry needling is based on western neuroanatomy and the modern scientific study of the musculoskeletal and nervous systems, while acupuncture is based on traditional Chinese medicine and the idea of Qi flowing through pathways called meridians.
How Does Dry Needling Fit Into a Full PT Plan?
Total Rehab Solutions describes its care as purpose driven, evidence based and individualized. Treatment approaches the practice lists include lumbar stabilization, rotator cuff programs, stretching and strengthening exercises, soft tissue massage, therapeutic exercise, manual therapy and posture education.
Ready to Ask Whether Dry Needling Is Right for You?
The best starting point is an evaluation with a licensed physical therapist. The home page says “NO REFERRAL Required”. In Auburn, the Glenn Avenue clinic at 2515 E. Glenn Avenue #104 can be reached at (334) 821-2256 and the South College clinic at 1907 South College Street Ste 208 at (334) 649-3399, or you can use the appointment request form on the website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does dry needling hurt?
How it feels varies from person to person. Ask your therapist what to expect for you.
Do I need a referral to ask about dry needling?
No. The home page says “NO REFERRAL Required.” You can request an appointment and ask about dry needling at your evaluation.
How many sessions will I need?
It depends on your problem and your overall plan. Ask your therapist at your first evaluation.
Can dry needling be used after surgery?
That depends on your surgery and what your surgeon advises. Total Rehab Solutions lists pre and post operative rehabilitation among its services, so raise it with your therapist.
Is dry needling covered by insurance?
Coverage depends on your plan. Total Rehab Solutions offers both insurance based and private pay therapy. Check with your insurer before your appointment.
Who should avoid dry needling?
Dry needling is not right for everyone. Your physical therapist can talk through whether it suits you and what the alternatives are.
Sources
This article draws on the following pages.