Dry Needling
What Is Dry Needling? A Powerful Tool for Pain Relief & Muscle Recovery
At Cardinal Physical Therapy, we’re always looking for effective ways to help our patients feel better, move better, and recover faster. One treatment you may not be familiar with—but that’s getting great results—is dry needling.
So, what exactly is dry needling, and how can it help you? Let’s break it down.
💡What Is Dry Needling?
Dry needling is a technique used by licensed physical therapists to treat muscle pain, stiffness, and dysfunction. It involves inserting very thin, sterile needles into trigger points—tight “knots” in your muscles—to release tension and improve mobility.
Despite the needles, it’s not acupuncture. While acupuncture is based on traditional Chinese medicine, dry needling is rooted in Western medicine and anatomy. It focuses on targeting muscular and myofascial trigger points, not energy flow or meridians.
🎯 What Does It Help With?
Dry needling can be especially helpful if you’re dealing with:
Chronic muscle tightness or spasms
Headaches and migraines
Neck and back pain
Shoulder impingement
Tendonitis or tendinopathy
Sciatica
Sports injuries or overuse
Post-surgical stiffness
Many patients feel immediate relief after a session, and dry needling often works best when combined with other physical therapy techniques like stretching, strengthening, and manual therapy.
🧠 How Does It Work?
The needle stimulates a twitch response in the muscle, which helps:
Increase blood flow
Decrease inflammation
Reset nerve signals
Reduce pain
Improve range of motion
Think of it as a “reset button” for tight or overworked muscles.
🤔 Does It Hurt?
Most patients describe the sensation as a quick twitch or deep ache — not sharp or painful. Some soreness is common for a day or two afterward (like after a good workout), but many feel significantly better in just one session.
Our therapists will always explain the process and make sure you’re comfortable every step of the way.
👨🏻⚕️ Is It Safe?
Yes. Dry needling is a safe and regulated technique performed by trained, licensed physical therapists. We use single-use, sterile needles and follow strict hygiene and safety protocols.
✅ Is Dry Needling Right for You?
If you’re struggling with stubborn pain or tightness that hasn’t improved with stretching or massage, dry needling may be the missing piece.
At Cardinal Physical Therapy, we include dry needling as part of a comprehensive treatment plan — always tailored to your body, your goals, and your comfort level.
Ready to Try Dry Needling?
We’re here to answer your questions and help you decide if it’s the right fit. Contact us today to schedule an evaluation or ask your therapist at your next visit.
📱402-404-8005
🌐cardspt.com
📍601 W. 29th Street
Suite B
South Sioux City, NE 68776
