Dry Needling

We currently have clinicians at each of our locations who are certified in Dry Needling. Dry Needling is a technique used to inactivate trigger points in order to decrease local and referred pain as well as improve range of motion. Trigger points are tender spots located within a tight band of muscle that can produce local and/or referred pain when stimulated. Dry needling works by normalizing the chemical environment of skeletal muscle and restoring local circulation.

WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM DRY NEEDLING?

Anyone who presents with myofascial trigger points can benefit from Dry Needling. Myofascial trigger points can be found in patients with a variety of diagnoses including joint dysfunction, tendinitis, muscle strains, headaches, neck and back pain, TMJ disorders, and many more.

FAQ

Does trigger point dry needling hurt?

Patient may experience some level of discomfort, but it is short-lived.

Is trigger point dry needling safe?

We go to great lengths to ensure safety. STARS Physical Therapists have all passed their necessary certifications.

How will I feel after having dry needling treatment?

There may be some soreness immediately after treatment in the area of the body that dry needling was performed. This is normal, although does not always occur. Occasionally, soreness develops a few hours later or even the next day. The soreness may vary depending on the area of the body that was treated and also varies person-to-person. It typically feels like you have had an intense workout at the gym. Occasionally patients will experience some bruising with this soreness.

How much will dry needling cost?

STARS charges $35 per dry needling session, which is in addition to the cost of the appointment. Insurance will not cover dry needling.

Can I come in just for a dry needling appointment?

Not currently. We only recommend dry needling as a part of the comprehensive physical therapy treatment program.

How is dry needling different from Acupuncture?

Dry needling is based on traditional, studied, and tested practices of Western Medicine to restore normal muscle function. Traditional acupuncture practitioners follow Eastern Medicine's key principle of holistic treatment, and base their practice on "normalizing the energy imbalance," or Chi, in the body to cure syndromes.

STARS prescribes dry needling within medically-proven and measurable parameters, in accordance with our advanced training in musculoskeletal function. STARS physical therapists that perform dry needling therapy have successfully passed additional certification and have a thorough knowledge of a patient's condition based on in-depth and ongoing assessments and treatment.

Are the needles reused or recycled?

No. Each needle is discarded after use, consistent with medically approved standards and practices.