Say Goodbye to Muscle Tension
Now Providing Dry Needling in Highlands Ranch
Dry needling is a highly effective technique we use to treat pain and movement dysfunction by targeting muscular trigger points. Whether you are dealing with a chronic injury or tight muscles that simply fail to loosen up, dry needling may be the missing link in your recovery.
What is Dry Needling?
Dry needling is a highly effective technique we use to treat pain and movement dysfunction by targeting muscular trigger points. Whether you’re dealing with a chronic injury or tight muscles that just won’t loosen up, dry needling may be the missing link in your recovery.
How Does it Work?
Dry needling involves the insertion of very thin, sterile needles into taut bands of muscle tissue—commonly known as trigger points. These areas are often the root cause of pain, tightness, or dysfunction that hasn’t responded to other treatments.
This technique helps:
- Release muscle tension
- Restore normal movement patterns
- Stimulate tissue healing
Why Is Dry Needling Effective for Chronic or Stubborn Injuries?
Dry needling is especially powerful when traditional therapies have not fully resolved your pain. It works by:
- Disrupting the pain-spasm cycle
- Improving circulation to affected tissue
- Resetting neuromuscular control
- Releasing deep-seated muscle knots that manual techniques often miss
Dry Needling vs. Acupuncture
While both treatments use similar needles, the techniques are fundamentally different:
| Dry Needling | Acupuncture |
|---|---|
| Science-based | Rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine |
| Treats musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction | Balances energy (qi) via meridian points |
| Focused on physical trigger points and tissue response | Focused on overall energy flow and wellness |
| Performed by medical professionals trained in anatomy | Performed by licensed acupuncturists |
Benefits of Dry Needling
Patients often report:
- Reduced muscle tightness and pain
- Better flexibility and mobility
- Faster healing from injury or overuse
- Relief from headaches, TMJ, and nerve entrapments
- Enhanced athletic performance and recovery
Frequently Asked Questions
Does dry needling hurt?
Most patients feel a small prick with the needle, followed by a brief muscle twitch or ache. This is a good sign the trigger point is being addressed. Some soreness can follow, similar to post-workout fatigue, but it usually resolves in a day or two.
Is dry needling safe?
Yes. Dry needling is a safe technique when performed by trained professionals. We use sterile, single-use needles and follow all recommended safety protocols.
How is dry needling different from massage or foam rolling?
Massage and foam rolling work more on the surface layers of muscle, while dry needling goes deeper into the tissue to deactivate specific trigger points. It can be more targeted and effective for stubborn muscle tension and dysfunction.
What should I expect after a session?
Some muscle soreness for 24–48 hours is normal, especially after your first session. Most patients notice improved range of motion and less pain. Light activity, stretching, and hydration are encouraged after treatment.
Who can benefit from dry needling?
Dry needling is helpful for people with chronic pain, sports injuries, muscle tightness, headaches, TMJ, nerve-related symptoms, and postural tension. We will evaluate your condition to make sure it is appropriate for your care plan.
Ready to Try Dry Needling?
Schedule an Appointment Today!