Dry Needling

Dry needling is a technique that involves the insertion of thin, monofilament needles—similar to those used in acupuncture—into muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia, scar tissue, and nerves, without the use of medication. In Loveland, OH, this method is commonly used to manage a variety of neuromusculoskeletal pain conditions. Patients have reported positive results after just 2 to 4 sessions. It can help relieve pain associated with back and neck issues, TMJ dysfunction, joint degeneration, tendinitis, frozen shoulder, carpal tunnel, plantar fasciitis, post-surgical pain, sports injuries, and chronic conditions like myofascial pain syndrome.

How Dry Needling Relieves Pain

Though the exact mechanism isn’t fully understood, three main theories explain its effectiveness: mechanical, chemical, and neurophysiological. Mechanically, the needle creates a controlled lesion that prompts the body to repair damaged tissue. Chemically, needling stimulates nerve endings and elicits a local twitch response (LTR) that helps reset trigger points and relieve pain. Neurophysiologically, dry needling may stimulate the release of pain-relieving chemicals like endorphins, helping modulate pain signals and improve overall muscle function.