When you visit the chiropractor, you will quickly learn that there are many treatments available beyond simple spinal adjustments. Although spinal adjustment remains a foundational type of chiropractic treatment, there are also other types of pain relief treatment you might find beneficial, such as dry needling. Here we provide answers to dry needling FAQ so that you can learn more about this innovative pain management option that we provide at Schofield Chiropractic Group, serving Cedar Falls Waterloo IA, and the surrounding areas.

What Is Dry Needling?

Dry needling is an effective form of chiropractic care that uses small, thin needles to break up knotted muscle tissue. In many cases, pain is a result of muscle tension and knotted tissue, also known as a taught band. Within this knotted muscle will be a trigger point. This trigger point is an area of very tight muscle tissue that cannot operate normally.

The needle is inserted into this trigger point. From there, the therapist can break up the knotted tissue so that that the muscle can rebuild healthy, unknotted tissue.

Who Needs This Type of Treatment?

This type of treatment is effective for patients who deal with chronic pain and tight muscles. Patients who deal with fibromyalgia also benefit from dry needling. Most types of muscle pain are a result of knotted tissue. When you visit our chiropractor, we will evaluate the areas you are experiencing pain and will determine if dry needling will benefit you.

How Is Dry Needling Done?

Our therapist will first evaluate the area to pinpoint the location of the tightened muscle. The area will then be gently palpated. This can soften the area somewhat. Once the area is softened, the trigger point can be more easily located. Once located, a needle will be inserted and the tissue will be broken down.

Following a dry needling session, it is recommended that you follow up with massage therapy for the area as well.

To learn more, contact us at Schofield Chiropractic Group, serving Cedar Falls Waterloo, IA, and the surrounding areas. Call us today at 319-277-5616.