What is all this talk about dry needling and will it help me?

Dry needling is a treatment that is offered by physical therapists that can help to improve mobility and decrease pain and stiffness. It can also be utilized to help reduce increased activity of the sympathetic nervous system. The sympathetic nervous system, which is our body’s fight or flight response, is almost always elevated when someone is in pain.

In the state of Georgia, a doctor’s referral for dry needling services is necessary. It is not typically covered by insurance, therefore is an out of pocket expense. But, the benefits of treatment make the investment worth it when it comes to reducing pain. 

What to Expect From Dry Needling Treatment

Dry needling is completed around areas that are painful to help promote blood flow to pathological tissues. The amount of needles that are used will always depend on someone’s response to the needles and the size of the area being treated (the shoulder may not require as many needles as the hip, for example). 

Once the needles are in, they can be twisted, to maximize the area that is being treated. Electrical stimulation can also be added to the needles to, once again, promote blood flow to pathological areas. Needles are left in for 15-30 minutes for maximal benefit. 

I always recommend consuming plenty of fluid following dry needling to keep tissues, joints, and muscles hydrated. It is common to have soreness around areas where needles were inserted, but this should not last more than 1-2 days. 

Due to pain relief that dry needling can provide, people are often able to tolerate more activity in the days following. It is important to not overdo things during this time to prevent re-injury. 

What Clinicians Can Perform Dry Needling?

Every physical therapist that completes dry needling has been trained to do so, and many may have been trained with different models of teaching. Therefore, not every therapist will dry needle the same way. Although techniques between clinicians may differ, the common goal is pain relief and restoration of movement and function. 

If you are wondering whether dry needling may be beneficial for you, reach out  schedule an evaluation online to discuss the pros and cons. ProActive Rehab and Wellness has certified clinicians that provide dry needling services. 

Susannah Azofeifa, PT, DPT was born and raised in Owensboro, Kentucky but now calls North Augusta, SC home. She attended the University of Louisville and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology/Exercise Science in 2017. She then attended Breanu University where she received her doctorate of physical therapy in 2021. Susannah enjoys treating a wide range of orthopedic conditions and also specializes in treating pelvic floor dysfunction, and pre and post partum individuals. She enjoys spending time doing activities such as CrossFit, being outdoors, traveling, being with family, and spending time with her husband, Fabian. She heads up our Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy (PFPT) program here at ProActive.