What is dry needling?
Dry needling uses very small needles to enter the skin and underlying tissues to treat pain, muscle impairments and movement disability. Treatments decrease muscle tension, allowing for improvement in pain and movement. Dry needling is most often used for pain in the spine or extremities, headaches, muscle strains, tendonitis, or overuse injuries. Dry needling is currently not reimbursed by most insurance companies and has a separate procedure fee.
What are the expected benefits of dry needling?
Dry needling has been shown to reduce pain, decrease muscle tension, increase range of motion and improve muscle function. When used with manual therapy, stretching, strengthening, movement and balance exercises, it can be an effective addition to your treatment plan.
Does dry needling hurt?
Dry needling side effects are minimal. Your therapist will use a very small acupuncture needle to penetrate the skin with little to no sensation. The muscle being treated will involuntarily contract, which may feel like a dull ache or an uncomfortable cramp. This feeling only lasts seconds and is temporary. After your treatment, your muscles may feel sore, but ice, heat, gentle stretching or massaging the area can help relieve any lingering pain.
What conditions can be treated with dry needling?
- Neck, shoulder, hip or leg pain
- Lower back pain and sciatica
- Headaches
- Overuse injuries, muscle strains, tendonitis, bursitis
| Appointments | 515-271-1717 |
|---|---|
| Hours | Monday - Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. |
| Location | 3200 Grand Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50312 |
“I recently started having issues with my shoulder and left side of my neck. I saw Dr. Lauren Mach and had therapy along with dry needling and my neck is doing so much better. I received exercises to do on my own throughout the day to help with continued improvement.”
Joni Champion, Clinic patient
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