How Dry Needling Works
The Science Behind Muscle Release and Pain Reduction
At Empower Movement Physical Therapy, we’re big believers in using the right tool for the right moment and dry needling is one of our favorite tools for releasing tight muscles and calming stubborn pain.
But we also know that the idea of sticking needles into your body sounds a little… intense. So if you’re wondering how does dry needling actually work? You’re in the right place.
Here’s a breakdown of the science behind dry needling, and why it’s such an effective part of modern physical therapy.
First: What Is a Trigger Point?
Before we dive into the “how,” let’s talk about what we’re actually treating.
A trigger point is a tight, irritable spot within a muscle often described as a “knot.” These spots can cause pain where they are (local pain) or refer pain to other parts of the body. For example, a trigger point in your shoulder might cause pain that radiates down your arm.
Trigger points form when muscle fibers become stuck in a contracted state. This limits blood flow, creates tension, and irritates surrounding nerves resulting in pain, stiffness, and decreased movement.
So... How Does Dry Needling Help?
Dry needling works by inserting a thin, sterile needle directly into the trigger point or tight muscle tissue. This does a few key things:
1. Muscle Reset (a.k.a. The “Twitch Response”)
When the needle hits a trigger point, the muscle may involuntarily twitch this is a good sign! It means the muscle fibers are reacting and “resetting” out of their tight, locked-up state.
Think of it like hitting a tiny reboot button on the muscle.
2. Increased Blood Flow
Trigger points restrict circulation, which limits the oxygen and nutrients muscles need to heal. The needle helps reopen that pathway, bringing fresh blood to the area which supports tissue repair and reduces inflammation.
3. Calms the Nervous System
Dry needling also helps interrupt the pain cycle by calming overactive nerves. It can change how your brain and nervous system are processing pain signals. Essentially, the goal is to “turn the volume down” and ease nagging symptoms.
This makes it especially helpful for:
sub-acute pain (3-6 months) as well as chronic pain (6+months)
Nerve-related conditions (like sciatica)
Tension headaches
4. Supports Your Movement-Based Therapy
While dry needling helps with the release, it’s not a standalone fix. The real magic happens when it’s paired with the right movement, mobility work, and strength training.
After dry needling reduces tension and pain, your muscles are more responsive to stretching, activating, and retraining. This responsiveness opens by which we can successfully achieve not only short-term relief but also long-term improvement.
What Does It Feel Like?
The needles are very thin.. You might feel a quick twitch, a dull ache, or a crampy sensation for a few seconds when a muscle knot is hit. Afterward, the area might be sore for a day or two, not unlike what one feels after a workout. Most people feel looser, lighter, and more mobile pretty quickly.
The Bottom Line
Dry needling is a safe, science-backed way to help release stubborn muscles, reduce pain, and create space for better movement. This is true especially when combined with a personalized physical therapy plan.
If you’re tired of feeling stuck, stiff, or in pain, dry needling could be a powerful addition to your care.
Let’s Talk About It.
Curious if dry needling could help your specific issue? We’re always happy to answer questions and walk you through what to expect. No pressure just good information and a plan that fits you.
→ Book your next appointment or ask us about adding dry needling to your treatment today.
We’re here to help you move better, feel stronger, and live life without limits.