Dry needling is an advanced therapeutic technique that has gained significant recognition in the physical therapy world. At Care Physical Therapy in Southfield, MI, our certified therapists use this evidence-based treatment to help patients overcome chronic pain, muscle tension, and movement dysfunction.

What is Dry Needling?

Dry needling is a skilled intervention performed by trained physical therapists using thin, solid filament needles. The technique involves inserting these needles directly into myofascial trigger points, tight muscle bands, and connective tissues to reduce pain and improve function. Unlike acupuncture, which is based on traditional Chinese medicine, dry needling is grounded in modern Western medicine and anatomy.

Key Benefits of Dry Needling

• Reduces muscle tension and trigger point sensitivity
• Improves blood flow and promotes healing
• Decreases pain and inflammation
• Enhances range of motion and flexibility
• Accelerates recovery from injuries

Conditions Treated with Dry Needling

Our Southfield physical therapists use dry needling to effectively treat a wide range of conditions:

Musculoskeletal Conditions

• Chronic back and neck pain
• Shoulder impingement
• Tennis and golfer's elbow
• Hip and knee pain
• Plantar fasciitis

Sports Injuries

• Muscle strains and sprains
• IT band syndrome
• Rotator cuff injuries
• Achilles tendinopathy
• Post-exercise muscle soreness

What to Expect During Treatment

During your dry needling session at our Southfield clinic, your physical therapist will first conduct a thorough assessment to identify trigger points and areas of muscle dysfunction. The treatment process typically involves:

Assessment: Your therapist will palpate muscles to locate trigger points and assess movement patterns.
Preparation: The treatment area is cleaned, and you'll be positioned comfortably.
Needle Insertion: Thin needles are inserted into specific trigger points with precision.
Stimulation: The needle may be manipulated to elicit a local twitch response in the muscle.
Removal: Needles are typically left in place for 10-30 minutes before removal.

Is Dry Needling Safe?

When performed by certified physical therapists, dry needling is very safe. Minor side effects may include temporary soreness, bruising, or fatigue. Serious complications are extremely rare when proper techniques and sterile needles are used.

Dry Needling vs. Acupuncture

While both techniques use thin needles, they differ significantly in approach and philosophy:

Aspect	Dry Needling	Acupuncture
Philosophy	Western medicine, anatomy-based	Traditional Chinese medicine, energy flow
Target	Trigger points, muscle dysfunction	Meridian points, energy balance
Training	Physical therapy + specialized certification	Traditional acupuncture training

Why Choose Care Physical Therapy for Dry Needling?

Certified Specialists

Our therapists are certified in dry needling techniques and stay current with latest research.

Personalized Care

Each treatment plan is tailored to your specific condition and recovery goals.

Proven Results

We combine dry needling with other evidence-based treatments for optimal outcomes.

Getting Started with Dry Needling

If you're experiencing chronic pain, muscle tension, or movement limitations, dry needling might be an effective treatment option for you. Our experienced physical therapists in Southfield will evaluate your condition and determine if dry needling is appropriate for your specific needs.

During your initial consultation, we'll discuss your symptoms, medical history, and treatment goals. If dry needling is recommended, we'll explain the process thoroughly and answer any questions you may have before beginning treatment.

Dry Needling Explained by Southfield Physical Therapists