Dry Needling Physical Therapy

Dry needling physical therapy is a skilled technique performed by physical therapists with specialized training. Available at select locations.

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What Is Dry Needling Physical Therapy?

Physical therapists with the appropriate training can provide the skilled technique of dry needling PT as part of a patient’s treatment plan. Using a thin, solid filament needle to penetrate the skin, the goal is to create a local twitch response (LTR) in the muscle to cause a spontaneous contraction and relaxation of muscle fibers.

This has been shown to normalize the mechanical, electrical and biochemical components of muscles with myofascial dysfunction. Dry needling PT is different than acupuncture, and is based on the Western neuroanatomy and modern scientific study of the musculoskeletal system.

What is the Purpose of Dry Needling Physical Therapy?

A physical therapist may recommend dry needling PT on muscle tissue with the goal of reducing pain, deactivating trigger points and restoring function to an affected area. Physical therapy dry needling is seldom used alone, but rather in combination with a broader and more traditional physical therapy approach.

 

Dry Needling Benefits

Dry needling physical therapy is beneficial to many patients, including those with:

• Entrapment syndromes: Piriformis syndrome, thoracic outlet syndrome, pronator teres syndrome, cubital tunnel syndrome
• Sprain/strain injuries: Hamstring, adductor, cervical, thoracic, low back
• Tendinitis: Rotator cuff tendinitis, medial/lateral epicondylitis, bicipital tendinitis, trochanteric bursitis, iliotibial band syndrome, patellar tendinitis, achilles tendinitis, plantar fasciitis
• Frozen shoulder and other joint restrictions
• Chronic pain conditions: Complex regional pain syndrome [CRPS], fibromyalgia
• Chronic tension type headaches
• Compartment syndrome

Referral Process

Please ask your doctor for a referral for dry needling PT, and schedule an appointment at select ATI locations offering this service.