Dry needling is an effective physical therapy treatment for musculoskeletal pain. Using thin filiform needles, a physical therapist inserts the needle into a taut band of muscle, called a trigger point, to release tension, minimize pain, and restore range of motion and mobility. Dry needling is used to treat a variety of conditions, including fibromyalgia, headaches, muscle and joint pain, and low back pain. Dry needling has a number of benefits such as reducing pain, increasing blood flow, and improving function and movement. It’s minimally invasive, cost-effective, and reduces reliance on pain medications.

What is the difference between manual therapy and massage therapy? Often manual therapy and massage are used interchangeably despite the fact that there are fundamental differences. Physical therapists provide manual therapy, which is a hands-on treatment technique to regain movement, activate muscles, and reduce pain and inflammation. Manual therapy includes soft tissue and joint mobilizations, myofascial release, muscle energy techniques, manual traction, cupping, dry needling, lymphedema, thrust manipulation, and strain-counter-strain techniques.