Dry Needling: What is it and how does it work?

When you hear “dry needling,” you might think of sore muscles and tight knots being released. And while that’s true, the benefits extend far beyond just muscle recovery. Research led by Dr. James Dunning and the American Academy of Manipulative Therapy (AAMT) has shown that dry needling is effective for treating a wide range of neuromusculoskeletal conditions—issues that affect nerves, muscles, and joints together.

How does it work?

By targeting muscle trigger points, nerve impingements, and injured ligaments, dry needling can:

• Reduce pain by modulating nerve activity and decreasing chemical irritation around painful tissues.

• Restore function by improving muscle activation, joint movement, and coordination between the nervous system and body.

• Speed up recovery after both injury and training by promoting blood flow, decreasing local inflammation, and improving tissue healing.

What does this mean for you?

Whether you’re dealing with a nagging runner’s knee, tension headaches, or post-lift back tightness, dry needling helps address the root causes—not just the symptoms. It’s not about masking pain; it’s about restoring the way your body moves and performs.

At Ironside Physical Therapy, dry needling is always paired with movement and strength-based rehab so you get lasting results. It’s one of the most effective tools to help active adults recover better and perform stronger.