Dry needling uses very thin, solid, sterile needles placed into tight bands of muscle, often called trigger points or knots. The goal is to help those tight spots release so the muscle can move more freely. No medication is injected, which is why it is called “dry” needling.
At Lexington Spinal Care, dry needling is one of the options we may recommend when muscle tension is part of your pain. Your exam comes first, and we explain what we find and what we suggest before any care begins.
Thin, Sterile Needles
We use single-use, solid filament needles that are much thinner than the needles used for shots or blood draws. Nothing is injected.
Aimed at Trigger Points
Dry needling targets the tight, tender knots in a muscle that can limit movement and refer pain to other areas.
Part of Your Plan
When it fits your situation, dry needling can be used alongside chiropractic adjustments and the other care in your plan.
Is Dry Needling Right for You?
Not everyone needs dry needling, and it is never the only part of a care plan. If tight, knotted muscles are contributing to your back, neck or shoulder pain, our team may suggest it after your exam. We will explain what to expect, answer your questions and only go ahead with your consent.
If you have a fear of needles, take blood thinners, have a bleeding disorder, are pregnant or have any other health concerns, let us know before your visit so we can plan the right approach for you.
Both use thin needles, but they come from different approaches. Acupuncture is based on traditional Chinese medicine and the flow of energy along meridians. Dry needling is based on muscle anatomy: the needle is placed directly into a tight band of muscle or a trigger point to help it release.
What does dry needling feel like?
Most people feel the needle go in as a small prick, or not at all. When the needle reaches a tight spot, you may feel a brief twitch in the muscle or a deep ache. Afterwards, the area can feel sore for a day or two, similar to how a muscle feels after a hard workout.
What happens during a visit?
We start by talking about your symptoms and checking the area. If dry needling is a good fit, we clean the skin, place the needles in the targeted muscles and remove them after a short time. Used needles are disposed of right away. We will tell you how to care for the area afterwards and what to watch for.
Dry Needling FAQs
Does dry needling hurt?
Most people feel little or nothing as the needle goes in. A brief twitch or deep ache is common when the needle reaches a tight spot, and some soreness can last a day or two afterwards.
Is dry needling the same as acupuncture?
No. Both use thin needles, but dry needling is based on muscle anatomy and targets tight bands of muscle and trigger points, while acupuncture is based on traditional Chinese medicine.
Are the needles sterile?
Yes. We use single-use, sterile needles and dispose of each one right after it is used.
How do I know if dry needling is right for me?
We decide together after your exam. If muscle tension is part of your pain, we will explain whether dry needling could help and how it fits with the rest of your care. Call (803) 356-1350 or book an appointment to get started.
