Dry Needling
Dry needling uses a thin, solid needle, with no medication, to release tight muscle knots called trigger points and reduce pain. East Mountain Physical Therapy lists dry needling among the treatments it offers in Cedar Crest, Edgewood, Tijeras and Moriarty, as one part of a plan with hands-on care and exercise.
How dry needling works
A trigger point is a knot in a muscle that stays tight and can send pain elsewhere. When a fine needle enters the knot, the muscle often twitches and then relaxes, which can reduce pain and tension and make it easier to move.
Dry needling and acupuncture are not the same
The needles look alike. The thinking behind them is different.
Dry needling
Based on Western anatomy, aimed at muscles and trigger points, used by a physical therapist inside a physical therapy plan.
Acupuncture
A separate practice with its own tradition and training. We do not present dry needling as acupuncture.
What a dry needling visit is like
Ask before your first visit if you have questions.
Evaluate first
Dry needling is added once your therapist has found the muscles that need it.
The needle
You may feel a brief muscle twitch or a dull cramp as the knot releases.
Afterward
A day or two of soreness is common, then your therapist adds exercise to keep the muscle working.
Tell us first if you
Dry needling is not right for everyone:
- have a bleeding disorder, or take blood thinners (ask before any needling)
- are pregnant
- have a strong fear of needles
- have a skin infection or are unwell
Where it is used
It is often part of care for neck pain, back pain, shoulder pain, headaches, elbow pain, hip pain, knee pain, foot and ankle pain, sports injuries and chronic pain. See also manual therapy and myofascial release. Who may perform dry needling varies by state, so ask your therapist about their training. Call (505) 286-3678 to ask about cost and insurance coverage before you book.
Related care
Dry Needling care in the East Mountains
We see patients from Cedar Crest, Edgewood, Tijeras, Moriarty and the East Mountains.