Many times, our patients ask us how trigger point dry needling is different from acupuncture. Acupuncture is widely known as an eastern medicinal practice that aims to improve Qi, the flow of energy in the body, whereas dry needling is rooted in western medicine and addresses musculoskeletal diagnoses. We recommend trigger point dry needling because it is a more individualized treatment that fits into a patient’s larger physical therapy care. It also improves pain and mobility in fewer sessions than acupuncture.

Yes, in fact, we recommend it. We encourage our patients to exercise and get back to their normal activities after dry needling. Some soreness is common, but exercise is the best way to relieve it.

Although more commonly known as knots in the muscle, trigger points are taut bands of muscle fibers within a larger group of muscles that may cause pain over the area and lead to difficulty performing everyday tasks. Muscles with trigger points fatigue faster, have less power, and take more time to recover from activities. They are common in muscles that are overused or damaged due to an injury. Trigger points are often tender to touch and can cause pain in other areas of the body.

We know exactly what you’re thinking. And no, most people don’t feel the needle being inserted. That’s because the needle is so thin that you likely won’t notice anything. During the treatment, you could feel mild cramping or the same pain or tightness that you’ve been experiencing before.