Dry needling is becoming a popular technique in physical therapy, used to relieve pain and promote healing. However, one of the most common questions for patients considering this treatment is: does dry needling hurt?
The idea of needles piercing the skin can cause anxiety, especially for those new to the dry needling procedure. Understanding the potential discomfort associated with dry needling is important for patients to feel confident and prepared before their first session.
In this article, we’ll explore whether dry needling is painful, how the process works, and what patients can expect during and after treatment.
What is Dry Needling?
Dry needling is a therapeutic technique in which a trained healthcare professional, typically a physical therapist, uses thin filiform needles to penetrate the skin. These needles are inserted into specific trigger points or knots within the muscles to stimulate healing and relieve pain. Unlike acupuncture, which is based on traditional Chinese medicine, dry needling is rooted in modern Western medicine and focuses on musculoskeletal conditions.
The goal of dry needling is to release tightness in the muscles, improve blood flow, and reduce pain. It’s commonly used for conditions like muscle strains, chronic pain, joint problems, and tension headaches. But before trying the therapy, many people wonder: is dry needling painful?
How Does Dry Needling Work?
Dry needling works by targeting trigger points—hyper-irritable spots within a muscle that can cause discomfort or referred pain. When the needle penetrates these areas, it stimulates a twitch response in the muscle fibers. This twitch response can help relax the muscles, improve range of motion, and decrease pain.
In a study examining the effects of dry needling on myofascial pain in 241 patients with 312 myofascial trigger points, it was found that 86% of patients experienced immediate pain relief without numbness when the needle was inserted into the most painful area.
The insertion of the needle creates micro-trauma in the muscle tissue, which then stimulates the body’s natural healing process. This increase in blood flow helps bring nutrients to the area and removes waste products, ultimately leading to faster recovery. Understanding this process is crucial to addressing the question of why dry needling may or may not hurt.
What to Expect During Dry Needling
During a dry needling session, the physical therapist will begin by assessing the areas of your body that need treatment. The actual needling process involves inserting very thin dry needles into trigger points. The therapist may manipulate the needle to achieve a local twitch response, which is a sign that the muscle is reacting to the treatment.
While the procedure sounds intense, it’s worth noting that the needles used are much thinner than those used in injections or blood draws. This makes the insertion process far less invasive. The typical session can last anywhere from 15 to 45 minutes, depending on the number of areas being treated.
Does Dry Needling Hurt or Painful?
So, does dry needling hurt? The answer varies from person to person. Some patients report minimal discomfort, while others feel a sharp, cramping sensation during the treatment. It’s important to remember that everyone’s pain threshold is different, and individual experiences can vary widely. According to the findings of a study about adverse events associated with therapeutic dry needling. Pain is a common expected minor adverse event during dry needling.
For most patients, the initial insertion of the needle feels like a small pinch or pressure. However, when the needle hits a trigger point, it may cause a twitch response, which can feel like a brief muscle cramp. This sensation is often described as uncomfortable but not necessarily painful. Many patients find that the relief they experience after treatment far outweighs any discomfort during the session.
It’s also common to experience soreness or aching in the treated area for 24 to 48 hours after the session. This soreness is similar to the feeling you get after a deep tissue massage and is generally considered mild.
Common Sensations Felt During Dry Needling
Patients undergoing dry needling may feel a range of sensations during the procedure. Some of the most common include:
- A pinprick: The initial needle insertion often feels like a small pinprick or pressure, similar to a light poke.
- Muscle twitching: As the needle enters the trigger point, a local twitch response may occur, causing the muscle to contract briefly.
- Cramping: The twitch response can feel like a muscle cramp, which usually resolves within seconds.
- Aching: After the session, the treated muscles may feel sore or tight, akin to post-exercise soreness.
Factors That Influence Pain or Discomfort Levels
Several factors can influence how painful is dry needling feels for each individual:
- Pain threshold: People with a higher pain tolerance may find the procedure only mildly uncomfortable, while those with a lower tolerance may experience more discomfort.
- Muscle tightness: Tight or knotted muscles are more likely to produce a strong twitch response, which can feel more intense.
- Location of treatment: Some areas of the body are more sensitive than others. Needling in the neck or back may feel different than in the legs or arms.
- Experience of the therapist: A skilled therapist will know how to minimize discomfort while effectively targeting trigger points.
Tips to Minimize Discomfort During Dry Needling
While some discomfort during dry needling is normal, there are several ways to minimize pain:
- Communicate with your therapist: Let your therapist know if you feel too much discomfort, as they can adjust the technique. You can also discuss any potential dry needling complications with your therapist beforehand to ensure you’re fully informed.
- Relax your muscles: The more relaxed you are during the procedure, the less painful it will be. Tense muscles can worsen discomfort.
- Breathe deeply: Taking deep breaths during needling can help you relax and reduce tension in the muscles.
- Hydrate: Drinking plenty of water before and after the session can aid muscle recovery and reduce post-treatment soreness.
Learn More About Dry Needling at Continuous Motion Physical Therapy
If you’re curious about dry needling and how it can benefit your health, the team at Continuous Motion Physical Therapy is here to help. Our experienced physical therapists can create a comprehensive treatment plan and guide you through the process, ensuring a comfortable and effective treatment experience. Schedule a consultation and learn more about how dry needling can address your pain.
Conclusion
While some patients may feel mild discomfort, the treatment is generally well-tolerated and provides significant benefits for muscle pain and tightness. Understanding why does dry needling hurt can help reduce anxiety and prepare you for a positive treatment experience. If you’re considering dry needling, consult with a trained physical therapist to determine if this therapy is right for you.
FAQS
Is it normal for dry needling to hurt?
Yes, it is normal to feel some discomfort during dry needling, particularly when the needle hits a trigger point and produces a muscle twitch. However, the level of pain varies for each person and typically subsides quickly.
Does dry needling feel like a shot?
No, dry needling does not feel like getting a shot. The needles used in dry needling are much thinner and designed to be less invasive. Most patients describe the sensation as a small pinch or muscle twitch rather than a sharp sting.
How to make dry needling less painful?
To minimize discomfort, communicate with your therapist about your pain levels, practice deep breathing, and try to relax your muscles during the procedure. Staying hydrated and moving gently after the session can also help reduce soreness.
