What Is Dry Needling — And Is It Right for You?

At Brown & Bradshaw Physical Therapy, we’re always looking for effective ways to help our patients move better, feel better, and recover faster. One treatment we’re proud to offer is dry needling — a modern technique that targets muscle pain and tightness with precision.

If you've heard of dry needling but aren’t sure what it is—or if it's something that could help you—this post is for you.

What Is Dry Needling?

Dry needling is a physical therapy technique that uses a thin, sterile needle to penetrate the skin and stimulate underlying trigger points in muscles—those tight, painful knots that can limit mobility or cause discomfort.

Despite the name, nothing is injected. That’s why it’s called “dry.” The goal is to release tension in the muscle, improve blood flow, and restore normal movement patterns.

How Does It Work?

When a trigger point is stimulated by a dry needle, it often causes a quick muscle twitch or spasm. This is a natural response that helps reset the muscle, allowing it to relax and function more normally. Many patients report an immediate sense of relief or improved range of motion after treatment.

At Brown & Bradshaw PT, we combine dry needling with therapeutic exercises and hands-on care to make sure the relief you feel lasts and supports your recovery goals.

What Conditions Can Dry Needling Help?

Dry needling can be highly effective for a range of issues, including:

• Chronic muscle tightness or soreness

• Back and neck pain

• Shoulder tension and rotator cuff problems

• Hip or sciatica pain

• Tendonitis or repetitive strain injuries

• Headaches related to neck or jaw tension

• Athletic recovery and performance

  
  

It’s often used as part of a broader treatment plan—and works especially well when combined with other physical therapy techniques.

Is Dry Needling the Same as Acupuncture?

While both use similar needles, dry needling and acupuncture are very different.

• Acupuncture is based on traditional Chinese medicine and focuses on energy meridians.

• Dry needling is rooted in modern Western science and focuses on musculoskeletal function.

  
  

Our licensed physical therapists are specially trained to use dry needling as part of evidence-based rehabilitation for muscle and joint issues.

What to Expect During a Session

Dry needling is a quick, in-office procedure. Sessions typically take 15–30 minutes and can be included in your regular therapy appointment. You may feel a mild ache or twitch when the needle hits the trigger point, but discomfort is usually brief.

Some patients experience temporary soreness (like post-workout soreness), but this often fades within a day or two.

Is It Right for You?

Dry needling isn’t for everyone—but for many of our patients, it’s a game-changing tool for relieving pain and speeding recovery. If you’ve been struggling with muscle tension, limited range of motion, or chronic pain that hasn’t responded to other treatments, we’d love to explore if dry needling is a good fit for you.

Our team at Brown & Bradshaw PT— Dr. Joel Brown, or Dr. Jon Bradshaw — will evaluate your specific condition and determine whether dry needling is a safe and effective option for you.

Ready to Learn More?

Whether you're recovering from an injury, battling persistent pain, or just looking to move better, we’re here to help.

• Call us at (208) 410-4003

• Email us at info@brownbradshawpt.com

• Visit us at www.brownbradshawpt.com