---
title: Reducing Your Pain with Dry Needling
description: Dry needling is a technique used in conjunction with other physical therapy treatments to reduce pain or muscle weakness at a trigger point.
---

[Lane Health Blog | Louisiana Hospital Blog ](https://www.lanermc.org/community/lane-health-blog)

# [Reducing Your Pain with Dry Needling](https://www.lanermc.org/community/lane-health-blog/reducing-your-pain-with-dry-needling)

 Written by [Lane Regional Medical Center](https://www.lanermc.org/community/lane-health-blog/author/lane-regional-medical-center) | Jun 2, 2021 8:34:03 PM

If you suffer from muscle aches, sciatica, or repetitive motion disorders such as carpal tunnel syndrome, pain and discomfort are probably present in your daily life. [Physical therapy](https://www.lanermc.org/services/rehabilitation-care/therapy-services) alone is sometimes not enough to restore your quality of life. Adding supplemental therapy, such as dry needling, could help improve your healing time and results.

## **What is Dry Needling?**

Dry needling is a technique used in conjunction with other physical therapy treatments to reduce pain or muscle weakness at a trigger point. It is performed by inserting a sterile filament needle into a muscle. The procedure is called “dry needling” because there is no liquid inside the needle. The process involved very little or no pain, and though it may look similar to [acupuncture](https://www.lanermc.org/services/acupuncture), it is very different in nature and what it works to accomplish.

## **How Does Dry Needling Help Reduce Pain?**

When the needle is applied to the sore muscle’s trigger point, it induces a twitch and deactivates the trigger point. This helps reduces muscle tightness and increases blood flow to the area. Because a tiny lesion is left behind, white blood cells are drawn to the area to assist in the healing process.

## **What Types of Problem can Dry Needling Treat?**

Dry needling can be used for a variety of issues, from frozen shoulder to headaches. If the problem, or underlying problem, is associated with muscle dysfunction or a reduction in range of motion, dry needling may be beneficial as a treatment.

## **What Should I Expect from Dry Needling?**

Needles are inserted into the muscle and, depending on the issue, are left in place for up to 15 minutes. Some patients report feeling a slight twitch or soreness while the procedure is performed. Though some experience immediate, it is common for it to take a few treatments before there is a noticeable, lasting difference. It is normal to experience some tenderness and bruising due to dry needling, but the side effects overall are generally mild.

Aches and pains are a frustrating part of life. Here at [Lane Outpatient Therapy](https://www.lanermc.org/outpatient-therapy), our goal is to help you strengthen and heal so you can resume a pain-free life. Contact us today to learn more about our outpatient therapy programs.

[View full post](https://www.lanermc.org/community/lane-health-blog/reducing-your-pain-with-dry-needling)

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