Dry Needling

At LHM Physical Therapy Institute, dry needling is used, when appropriate, to reduce pain, decrease muscle guarding, and improve mobility for an easier return to exercise, rehab, and daily activities. Treatment sessions are typically 5-15 minutes as part of a physical therapy visit and are followed by movement-based rehab. Dry needling is not available at every LHMPTI clinic and is only provided by clinicians who have completed advanced training and certification. If you’re interested, contact us and we’ll help you find a trained provider and location.

What is dry needling?

Dry needling is a physical therapy treatment that uses a thin needle to help release painful “muscle knots” and help your muscles work better.

Is dry needling the same as acupuncture?

No. Dry needling and acupuncture use similar needles, but they’re based on different training models and treatment goals. Dry needling is used by physical therapists (where allowed) to address pain and movement impairments as part of a physical therapy plan of care.

What does dry needling help with?

Dry needling may help when pain, tightness, or trigger points are limiting movement or slowing rehab progress. Dry needling is even more beneficial when paired with strengthening and mobility training.

Dry needling may be considered for:

Mechanical or myofascial pain

Muscle guarding/protective tension

Limited mobility or range of motion (ROM)

Overuse-related symptoms (repetitive strain/tightness patterns)

What does the research say about dry needling?

Research supports dry needling as a helpful option for certain musculoskeletal pain conditions, particularly when combined with an active rehab plan. It’s often used as part of a broader approach that includes exercise, movement retraining, and education.

What happens during a dry needling appointment at LHMPTI?

Dry needling is typically performed as a short, targeted portion of your physical therapy visit (often about 5–15 minutes), followed by movement-based treatment.

Here’s what you can expect:

Screening + Plan

Your therapist reviews your symptoms, medical considerations, and goals to confirm dry needling is appropriate

Education + Consent

Your therapist explains the treatment, what you may feel, expected response, aftercare, and obtains your consent.

Targeted Treatment

A thin, sterile needle is placed into specific tissues to help reduce sensitivity and improve motion. Some people feel a quick twitch response or a brief cramping sensation.

Reinforcement with Movement

Follow up with mobility, strengthening, and movement retraining in therapy to help retain the benefits and accelerate progress.

Does dry needling hurt?

Comfort varies based on treatment area and individual sensitivity level.

What are the common side effects? Is it safe?

Dry needling is generally considered safe when performed by trained therapists using sterile techniques. Side effects may include temporary soreness and minor bruising. Less common risks exist (as with any procedure). Your therapist will screen for factors to make sure dry needling is appropriate for you.

Who should not receive dry needling?

Your therapist will screen you first, but be sure to tell us if you:

Are pregnant or think you might be

Take blood thinners or have a bleeding disorder

Have significant needle anxiety or a history of fainting with needles

Have a compromised immune system or active infection

Have a medical condition that may change safety considerations

What should I do after dry needling?

It depends on your condition and goals. Some patients notice improvement quickly; others benefit from a short series of sessions, especially when paired with a progressive exercise plan and home guidance. On average, you may expect this type of treatment once per week, for a total of 3-5 sessions on one treatment area.

Why choose LHMPTI for dry needling?

Dry needling may help calm pain, reduce muscle guarding, and restore motion so you can tolerate exercise sooner and progress more efficiently toward functional goals.

At LHMPTI, dry needling is: