Dry Needling in Arlington

Dry Needling for Pain Relief and Improved Function in Arlington

If you suffer from chronic musculoskeletal pain or restricted range of motion, dry needling may help provide relief when other treatments have failed. Arlington Physical Therapy offers specialized dry needling in Arlington to target trigger points, release muscle tension, improve flexibility, and accelerate injury rehabilitation.

 

A Proven Solution for Stubborn Muscle and Joint Issues

Dry needling is an effective adjunct treatment that involves inserting very thin needles into tight, knotted muscles or trigger points. This stimulates the release of endorphins, relaxes muscle tightness, increases blood flow, and restores mobility in restricted joints and tissues.
While similar in appearance to acupuncture, dry needling has a different physiological effect. Acupuncture places needles in energy meridians to balance chi and promote systemic healing. Dry needling uses needles to mechanically disrupt contracted tissues and deactivate trigger points that cause localized pain.

At Arlington Physical Therapy, we use dry needling to provide lasting relief from:

  • Chronic neck, shoulder, and back pain
  • Muscle strains and tears
  • Tendonitis
  • Sciatica
  • Joint stiffness or reduced range of motion
  • Sports injuries
  • Post-surgical scar tissue
  • Muscle tension headaches

If you deal with nagging aches and pains, stiffness that prevents mobility, or slow injury rehab progress, dry needling could help get you back to full function faster. Read on to discover the ways dry needling can relieve discomfort and restore flexible movement.

Dry Needling Benefits in Arlington

1. Deactivates Pain Triggers and Reduces Inflammation
Dry needling disables hyperirritable spots within muscle tissues known as trigger points. These sensitive areas generate and uphold chronic musculoskeletal pain. By targeting trigger points, we can provide lasting relief rather than just temporary comfort. Disabling these pain generators also reduces local tissue inflammation. Less inflammation permits improved blood flow, oxygen, and nutrients to aid tissue healing and muscle recovery.

2. Relaxes Muscle Tightness and Restores Mobility
The insertion of thin needles into muscle knots and bands of rigid tissue stimulates reflexive relaxation of contractured muscles. Releasing overactive, fatigued, or injured muscles allows them to return to their normal healthy length and tone. As muscles lengthen and relax, mobility in neighboring joints markedly improves. Gentle stretching and controlled movements performed after a session of dry needling helps re-establish range of motion. Improved flexibility and stability help you perform daily tasks with greater ease and less risk of re-injury.

3. Complements Orthopedic Therapy Treatment
Dry needling enhances the effectiveness of manual therapies, therapeutic exercise, pain modalities, and other rehab treatments. By jumpstarting the muscle recovery process, it facilitates faster results from orthopedic therapy interventions. We integrate dry needling into custom treatment programs for injuries and orthopedic surgery rehabilitation. The combination of dry needling and proven therapeutic techniques shortens recovery time and helps you make quicker gains.

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Is Dry Needling in Arlington Right For You? FAQs

What does dry needling actually do for you?
Dry needling releases contracted muscle tissue, disables hypersensitive trigger points causing pain, increases blood flow, and activates pain relieving endorphins. These local effects add up to decreased discomfort, enhanced mobility, improved neuromuscular control, and faster recovery from injuries.

What are possible negative side effects of dry needling?
Most people tolerate dry needling extremely well. Any side effects are usually minor and temporary. You may experience localized soreness for up to 48 hours after treatment and small bruises at insertion sites. Rarely patients report mild nausea, lightheadedness, or headache during the session which resolves promptly.

How does dry needling differ from acupuncture?
While the techniques appear similar on a superficial level since both involve needles, the therapeutic mechanisms differ. Dry needling focuses on releasing muscle tightness to relieve impairments in skeletal muscles and connective tissues. It relies on established neuroanatomical and physiological principles vs. traditional Chinese medicine concepts.

What restrictions apply after getting dry needling?
We recommend taking it easy after your initial dry needling session and avoiding strenuous physical work or exercise for 24 hours. Stay well-hydrated, rest the treated areas, and apply heat or ice as desired for soreness. Listen to your body and don’t overexert as your tissues heal.

About The Author

Imagine overcoming limitations and regaining your physical strength. Guillermo Morales, a PT, DPT, CEO in Physical Therapy, has helped countless individuals like you do just that. Practicing at Arlington Physical Therapy in Arlington, Guillermo Morales believes in tailored care and utilizes innovative techniques to create unique solutions for each patient’s journey.

Arlington Physical Therapy’s Dry Needling Specialist

Ana Maria Madrid, our PT, VP, tailors each treatment session based on your unique condition, medical history, pain presentation, and goals. They use specialized filiform needles to precisely target affected muscles and trigger points without damaging nearby tissues.

Start Your Dry Needling Journey in Arlington Today

If sore, stiff muscles prevent you from performing your best, don’t wait to pursue relief. Contact us to determine if dry needling is right for you.