Trigger Point Dry Needling
Trigger Point Dry Needling in Marlton, NJ
Targeted Treatment for Muscle Pain, Tightness & Restricted Movement
Trigger point dry needling is a technique I use to address muscle pain, persistent tightness, and movement restrictions. It involves inserting thin, sterile acupuncture needles into specific areas of muscle tissue, often referred to as myofascial trigger points.
At South Jersey Sports Acupuncture, dry needling is part of my individualized approach to treating musculoskeletal problems. Rather than simply treating where you feel pain, I evaluate how muscles, joints, and movement patterns may be contributing to your symptoms.
How Does Dry Needling Work?
Dry needling targets areas of muscle that may be contributing to pain, tenderness, or restricted movement.
When a needle is inserted into a trigger point, it may produce a brief involuntary muscle contraction known as a local twitch response. This is a common response, although it isn't necessary for a successful treatment.
Dry needling may help reduce muscle pain and improve movement in certain musculoskeletal conditions. Results vary depending on the individual and the underlying problem.
What Conditions Can Dry Needling Help?
I commonly incorporate dry needling into treatment for:
Neck and shoulder pain
Upper trapezius and muscle tension
Low back and hip pain
Gluteal and hip flexor problems
Tennis elbow and other overuse injuries
Muscle strains and sports injuries
Persistent trigger points and muscle tightness
Movement restrictions associated with muscle pain
You don't need to be an athlete to benefit from dry needling. Many of my patients simply want to move more comfortably and get back to their everyday activities. For a more complete list of conditions I commonly work with, visit What I Treat.
My Approach to Dry Needling
My background in structural integration, acupuncture, and neuromuscular treatment influences how I use dry needling.
I don't approach every painful muscle as an isolated problem. I look at the relationship between the painful area, surrounding tissues, and how the body moves.
Depending on your evaluation, I may incorporate trigger point dry needling, motor point acupuncture, or electro-acupuncture as part of your treatment.
The objective is to select the techniques most appropriate for your particular condition, rather than follow the same protocol for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is dry needling the same as acupuncture?
Dry needling and acupuncture both use thin, solid needles. Trigger point dry needling focuses primarily on muscular trigger points and musculoskeletal symptoms. In my practice, these techniques are incorporated within a broader acupuncture treatment approach.
Does dry needling hurt?
You may feel a brief ache, pressure, or muscle twitch during treatment. Some areas are more sensitive than others. Temporary soreness afterward is fairly common.
How many treatments will I need?
That depends on your condition, how long you've had it, and how you respond. Some patients notice improvement early, while others benefit from a series of treatments. We'll evaluate your response as treatment progresses.
Is dry needling safe?
Dry needling is generally well tolerated when performed by an appropriately trained practitioner using sterile needles. Temporary soreness, bruising, or minor bleeding can occur. Serious complications, including infection, nerve injury, or pneumothorax when needling near the chest, are uncommon but possible. I'll review relevant precautions before treatment.
Ready to Get Started?
If you're dealing with persistent muscle pain, tightness, or restricted movement, trigger point dry needling may be one of the approaches that can help.
Schedule an appointment at South Jersey Sports Acupuncture in Marlton, NJ, and we'll determine the most appropriate treatment for your condition.