If you’ve been dealing with muscle pain, stiffness, or injuries, you may have heard about dry needling as a treatment option. But what exactly is it, and how does it work? While it might sound similar to acupuncture, dry needling is a modern, science-based therapy designed to relieve muscle tension and improve movement.

What Is Dry Needling?

Dry needling is a treatment performed by trained healthcare professionals where thin, sterile needles are inserted into specific muscle trigger points—tight knots in your muscles that can cause pain and restrict movement. Unlike acupuncture, which is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, dry needling is based on Western medical principles and focuses on releasing muscle tightness, improving blood flow, and reducing pain.

How Does Dry Needling Work?

When a needle is inserted into a tight or irritated muscle, it helps to:

Release Trigger Points – Trigger points are hyper-irritable muscle knots that can cause pain and stiffness. Dry needling stimulates these areas, allowing them to relax.
Improve Blood Flow – By inserting a needle into the muscle, circulation increases, delivering oxygen and nutrients to help with healing.
Reduce Pain and Tension – The nervous system responds to the needle by decreasing pain signals and promoting muscle relaxation.

What Does a Dry Needling Session Feel Like?

Many people are hesitant to try dry needling in Spearfish because of the word “needle,” but the experience is quite different from getting a shot. The needles used are very thin, and most patients describe the sensation as a mild twitch or dull ache, rather than pain. Some common sensations include:

✅ A brief muscle twitch when the needle is inserted
✅ A deep pressure or soreness that fades quickly
✅ Immediate or gradual relief after the session

What Conditions Can Dry Needling Help?

Dry needling is commonly used to treat:

✔ Chronic muscle pain and tension
✔ Neck and back pain
✔ Headaches and migraines
✔ Sports injuries and muscle strains
✔ Sciatica and nerve-related pain
✔ Joint pain, including shoulders, knees, and hips

Is Dry Needling Safe?

Yes! When performed by a trained provider, dry needling is a safe and effective treatment with minimal side effects. Some patients may experience mild soreness for a day or two, similar to post-workout soreness. Drinking plenty of water and moving gently after treatment can help reduce any discomfort.

Dry Needling vs. Acupuncture: What's the Difference?

Many people confuse dry needling with acupuncture, but they are not the same treatment:

Dry Needling

Based on modern medicine
Targets muscle trigger points
Used for pain relief and mobility

Acupuncture

Rooted in traditional Chinese medicine
Focuses on energy pathways (meridians)
Used for overall wellness and balance

Final Thoughts

Dry needling is a powerful tool for relieving pain, improving movement, and helping your muscles recover. Whether you're dealing with an old injury or daily muscle tension, this treatment can get you back to feeling your best.

📍 Mountain Movement Chiropractic – Spearfish, SD
📅 Schedule a Dry Needling Session Today!

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