Dry Needling
Precise care for pain relief, improved movement, and faster recovery
what is dry needling?
Dry needling is a modern therapeutic technique designed to release tension, reduce pain, and support healing in muscles, fascia, tendons, ligaments, and more.
Unlike acupuncture, dry needling is rooted in Western medicine and focuses on targeting neuromuscular dysfunction to restore optimal movement.
Dry needling uses a thin, sterile filament needle to stimulate specific areas of dysfunction in the body—commonly known as trigger points.
Trigger points (or tight bands of muscle) are often the source of referred pain, limited mobility, or lingering tightness.
Dry needling is safe, effective, and supported by research—especially when integrated into a larger rehabilitation or movement-based care plan.
Benefits of Dry Needling
Dry needling can help support recovery from both acute injuries and chronic pain. Clinical benefits may include:
• Relief of muscle tension and tightness
• Reduction of pain (both local and referred)
• Increased circulation and tissue healing
• Improved joint range of motion
• Re-education of the neuromuscular system
• Decreased swelling and inflammation
• Faster recovery after injury, surgery, or overuse
• Enhanced outcomes when combined with rehab, splinting, or manual therapy
Conditions Commonly Treated with Dry Needling:
• Neck and back pain
• Shoulder injuries or tension
• Sciatica or hip pain
• Plantar fasciitis
• Tennis elbow or golfer’s elbow
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Muscle strains and movement restrictions
• Headaches and jaw pain
What to Expect
During a dry needling session, you may experience a mild twitch, warmth, or a dull ache as the targeted tissue responds. Most clients report a noticeable sense of release, improved mobility, or a reduction in pain following treatment. Some post-treatment soreness is common and typically resolves within 24–48 hours.
Dry needling is never used in isolation—it’s integrated into a personalized therapy plan tailored to your condition and goals. Depending on your needs, this plan may include:
• Therapeutic exercise and movement retraining
• Manual therapy or soft tissue mobilization
• Functional rehab for return to daily life, work, or sport
• Nerve glides, scar management, or desensitization techniques
• Custom orthoses (splints or braces)
✋ Dry Needling for Hand and Wrist Therapy
Offered by Anne Marie Schneider, Occupational Therapist & Certified Hand Therapist (CHT)
For those dealing with hand, wrist, or forearm pain, dry needling can be a powerful tool—when performed with expertise and precision. Anne Marie specializes in the delicate structures of the upper extremity and applies dry needling safely and effectively to support healing, reduce pain, and restore fine motor function. LEARN MORE
Is Dry Needling Safe?
Yes—when performed by a licensed and specially trained professional. As physical and occupational therapists, we apply dry needling with a strong foundation in anatomy, movement science, and evidence-based practice. We follow strict clean needle protocols and use clinical judgment to ensure the technique is safe, effective, and appropriate for your unique situation.
Rob and Anne Marie were both trained through Structure & Function Education, an advanced program tailored specifically for rehab professionals like OTs, PTs, and ATCs who integrate needling into injury recovery, post-surgical care, and performance rehab.
