Dry Needling
Dry Needling
On Point With Your Pain!
Dry Needling for neck pain
Dry Needling is a procedure in which a tiny filament needle is inserted into the skin around or in a muscle tissue that causes pain in areas of the body. Chronic pain is often the source of some dysfunction, yet it is widely ignored by many health care providers. Our therapists assess our patients with a detailed and specific muscle examination to determine an individualized treatment plan for dry needling procedures. Agape’s Physical Therapists: Kristin, Bethany, Leslie and Allison are ready to help you feel better!
What type of problems can be treated with Dry Needling?
Dry needling can be used for a variety of musculoskeletal problems. Muscles are thought to be a primary contributing factor to the pain symptoms. The list below is an idea of common issues addressed but should not be limited to:
- neck/back/shoulder pain
- tennis elbow
- carpal tunnel
- golfer’s elbow
- tension headaches and migraines
- jaw pain
- sciatica
- hamstring strains
- calf tightness/spasms
The treatment of muscles has the greatest effect on reducing pain mechanisms in the nervous system.
How does Dry Needling work?
There are mechanical and biochemical effects. Inserting a needle into certain areas can cause favorable biochemical changes, which assist in reducing pain.
Is Dry Needling similar to Acupuncture?
At Agape Doctors of Physical Therapy who are Certified Integrative Dry Needling Therapists perform Dry Needling. They do not practice acupuncture. The Dry Needling practiced at Agape Therapy is based on western medicine principles. Dry Needling addresses the nervous system through: paravertebral, homeostatic, and symptomatic points. Trigger Points may be dry needled as well but the integrative Dry Needling creates an even broader more effective outcome. Here is a link to learn about the courses: http://www.integrativedryneedling.com.
Is the procedure painful?
Most patients do not feel the insertion of the needle. The local twitch response can elicit a very brief (less than a second) slight irritation response. Some patients describe this as a tiny electrical shock; others feel it more like a slight cramp sensation. Again, the therapeutic response occurs with the elicitation of local twitch responses and that is a good and desirable reaction.
What can I expect after the treatment?
Results will vary person to person, but many of our patients have amazing results. Jordan, an Agape PT stated “I had a college student who had hip pain with intermittent “clicking” throughout the day and after one session of needling he said his hip felt pretty much normal and was ready to start playing basketball again.”
Where does Dry Needling fit in the entire rehabilitation program?
Generally speaking, Dry Needling can be incorporated along with your therapy in the clinic. Not everyone is right for Dry Needling. Ask your therapist if Dry Needling is right for you.
Once I am feeling better, how often do I need to come back to maintain my progress?
Due to the musculoskeletal system being under constant pressure from gravity, stress, work etc., the length of results can vary. A regular exercise program combined with good posture can prevent many problems. In the end it becomes a decision by you based on how good it makes you feel and for how long. Your therapist can help you make a decision once they assess you.
How do I set up an appointment?
No Doctors order is needed! Just call the Cedar Falls Clinic at 277-3166 to set up an appointment.
How much does it cost?
20 min. appointments: $40.00
40 min. appointments: $80.00
If you are an active Physical Therapy patient, and your PT Dry Needles, you can get Dry Needling at the end of your session: $25