Dry Needling

How Dry Needling works

The mechanical stimulation of the muscle produces a local twitch or rapid depolarization of muscle fibers. After this process the muscle activity dramatically reduces resulting in relaxation and decrease in pain and dysfunction. This decrease in pain is related to the removal of muscular compression on joint, nerve and vascular tissue. Occasionally, insertion of the needle will also reproduce “referred pain” symptoms. This is often a positive sign confirming the trigger point as being the cause of the pain. It is theorized that Dry Needling also stimulates release of endogenous opioids, and initiates a “new healing process”.

When is Dry Needling prescribed

As a part of an overall care plan, Dry Needling is a natural extension of quality hands on therapy. To be effective, Dry Needling is usually not performed as an isolated treatment, but as part of a comprehensive care plan; it is another very specific tool to reduce pain and help patients to better tolerate their chiropractic treatment plan. Successful Dry Needling must be administered by a highly skilled therapist and/or Doctor of Chiropractic with advanced training in anatomy and musculoskeletal function and dysfunction. 

Frequently asked questions about Dry Needling

Does Dry Needling hurt?

Typically, patients will feel some level of discomfort, but it is short-lived. If one does not feel the treatment at all, it is not yet working.

Is Dry Needling safe?

We go to great lengths to ensure safety. We apply OSHA standards, use personal protective high-quality equipment, and proudly hold to the highest standards of safety.

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. Dry Needling at EHS is within medically-proven and measurable parameters, in accordance with our training in musculoskeletal function. Dry Needling is performed by Dr. Andrea Wuotila whom has successfully passed regulated board exams, and have a thorough knowledge of each patient’s condition based on in-depth and ongoing assessments and treatment.

How will I feel after having treatment done?

There may be some soreness immediately after treatment in the area of the body that was Dry Needled. 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, but typically it feels like you have had an intense workout at the gym. Occasionally patients will experience some bruising with this soreness. A patient may also feel tired, nauseous, emotional, and/or somewhat “out of it” after treatment. This is a normal response that only lasts an hour or two after treatment.

How many sessions of Dry Needling will I need?

Dry Needling patients average 2-3 sessions, and will not use more than 5-6 except in rare circumstances. Often we will use Dry Needling once or twice per week out of 2-3 visits.

How much does Dry Needling cost?

EHS charges $40.00 per Dry Needling if coupled with an adjustment. $75.00 if done on its own. Insurance does not cover this procedure.  We do not typically use Dry Needling at a patient’s first appointment unless they fit a classic “trigger point” presentation. We may introduce a patient to Dry Needling at an initial appointment, educating on the procedure, benefits, risks and side effects; and then use the procedure on subsequent visits

Can I come in just for a Dry Needling appointment?

We only recommend Dry Needling as a part of a comprehensive treatment program. A new patient will have a thorough examination before any Dry Needling can be performed.