Dry Needling Therapy In Highlands Ranch

What Is Dry Needling?

Dry needling involves inserting thin, solid needles into specific areas of muscle known as myofascial trigger points—those tight, tender knots that can cause pain or restrict movement. Dry needling is designed to address 3 main things: reduce pain, induce an inflammatory response to reset the healing phase of tissues, and reduce muscle contractions.

How It Works

  • The needle stimulates the muscle, causing it to twitch or contract, which helps release tension.
  • This process increases blood flow, flushes out acidic buildup, and encourages the release of endorphins—your body’s natural painkillers.
  • It’s called “dry” because no medication is injected—unlike trigger point injections that use substances like lidocaine.

Indications – Why It’s Used

Dry needling is often part of a broader pain management or physical therapy plan. It’s used to:

  • Reduce local and referred pain
  • Improve range of motion

Support muscle recovery and function

Conditions It May Help With

  • Low back pain
  • Neck tension or whiplash
  • Headaches
  • Tendinitis (e.g., Achilles, rotator cuff)
  • TMJ (jaw pain)
  • Muscle strains and overuse injuries
  • Disc problems
  • Joint problems
  • Pain in the extremities
  • Repetitive motion disorders (like carpal tunnel syndrome)
  • Tendinitis

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Dry Needling vs. Acupuncture

While both use similar needles, dry needling targets muscle dysfunction based on Western anatomy and physiology. Acupuncture, on the other hand, is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine and focuses on energy flow or “qi”.

Common Questions:

While you will feel a prick while the needle is being inserted, it’s nothing like an injection; many people don’t even feel the prick. However, when the needle is in, it can create a deep burning sensation or discomfort. It is always important to remember that the goal is to get long-term relief.

Sessions run about 20 minutes.

As every person responds differently, there’s no one answer. However, many people experience improvement within 24 hours.

Those who are afraid of needles, coagulation (blood clotting) disorders, or 12 to 16 weeks pregnant should not receive the therapy.

The majority of side effects have been minor, including soreness during or after the treatment, bleeding at the site of the needle insertion, fainting, fatigue, and bruising.

Contraindications – When NOT to Use Dry Needling:

  • Those afraid of needles
  • Coagulation (Blood Clotting) disorders,
  • 12 to 16 weeks pregnant should not receive the therapy
  • Compromised immune system
  • Certain systemic conditions that affect tissue integrity and healing
Office Hours
Morning Afternoon
Monday 8AM - 1PM 3PM - 6PM
Tuesday 11AM - 1PM 3PM - 6PM
Wednesday 8AM - 1PM 3PM - 6PM
Thursday 11AM - 1PM 3PM - 6PM
Friday 8AM - 1PM --

Schedule Your Appointment Today

Contact us today to book a free 15-minute consultation with our Chiropractor in Highlands Ranch! We look forward to getting you on the path to optimal health and wellness.

CALL (303) 779-7933