Dry Needling is a technique used by physical therapists to treat muscle tension, alleviate pain and restore mobility. A “dry” needle, one without medication or any injection, is inserted through the skin into painful or knotted areas of the muscles, tendons or ligaments. The needles are able to treat very deep parts of the muscles a physical therapist could not get to with his or her hands alone.

Dry Needling Benefits

The goal of dry needling is to release trigger points to relieve pain and improve mobility. Dry needling can improve pain control, reduce muscle tension and overall help speed up a patient’s return to active rehabilitation.

When to use Dry Needling?

Dry Needling can be used to treat a variety of musculoskeletal issues from head to toe  including neck or back pain, muscle spasms, hip or knee pain, headaches, and much more. This technique is performed along with other traditional physical therapy exercises to provide a holistic approach to healing.

Does Dry Needling hurt?

For most patients, the dry needling technique causes little to no discomfort or pain. At Rehab Access, physical therapist strive to make our patients feel as comfortable and painless as possible. When the needles are inserted, your muscles may experience a “twitch response” or contraction, but it will be followed by relaxation.

Dry Needling vs Acupuncture

Dry Needling is a westernized form of Acupuncture. The same needles are used in both, however the practice and technique of Dry Needling is based on Western medicine and research versus the Chinese “chi” theory used in Acupuncture.

Dry Needling at Rehab Access

Rehab Access offers dry needling at both the Gretna and Belle Chasse clinics. Our physical therapists are trained and certified in the latest dry needling techniques. Most importantly our patients find relief and healing from this technique. “[Dry Needling] was able to provide me with relief for the first time since my injury” says one Rehab Access patient.

Dry Needling is an effective technique that can help relieve your pain and improve mobility quickly when combined with other physical therapy techniques offered at Rehab Access. Contact Us at Belle Chasse & Gretna, LA Centers  to learn more about dry needling treatment.