Dry Needling
Dry needling sessions are offered as part of our integrative physical therapy model or you may book 30 minute dry needling sessions separately.
Conditions That May Benefit From Dry Needling
Neck, back, and shoulder pain
Migraines and tension headaches
Tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, and carpal tunnel
Sciatica, hamstring strains, calf tightness or spasms
Patellofemoral (knee) pain
Additional benefits may include:
Faster recovery
Reduced reliance on pain medication
Improved circulation and sleep quality
Nervous system “reset” by breaking the pain–tension cycle
What Is Dry Needling?
Dry needling is a technique used by physical therapists to reduce pain, release muscle tension, and restore movement. It involves the insertion of very fine, sterile needles into myofascial trigger points—tight areas of muscle that contribute to pain, restriction, and inflammation.
At Posture Studio, dry needling is offered as part of our integrative physical therapy approach. Physical therapist Tara Fontenot has advanced training in dry needling and will determine whether this treatment is appropriate for you during your initial evaluation and follow-up sessions.
Dry needling may be integrated into your physical therapy plan, and once you’ve completed an initial assessment, you may also book 30-minute dry needling sessions for maintenance care.
How Does Dry Needling Work?
Overused or chronically tight muscles often don’t receive adequate blood flow, oxygen, or nutrients, which prevents them from returning to a relaxed resting state. This can lead to ongoing pain and nervous system irritation.
When a needle stimulates a trigger point, it often creates a brief local twitch response—a spinal cord reflex that signals the muscle to release. This reflexive relaxation:
Increases blood flow
Improves nerve signaling
Reduces muscle spasm
Helps flush out inflammatory chemicals
The process also stimulates the release of endorphins, the body’s natural pain relievers. Many people notice reduced pain and improved mobility after one session, though some conditions may require multiple treatments for optimal results.
Is Dry Needling the Same as Acupuncture?
Dry needling may look similar to acupuncture, but the approach is different. Dry needling is grounded in Western medicine and research and focuses specifically on treating myofascial trigger points related to pain and movement dysfunction. Needles are placed directly into the affected tissue rather than along traditional acupuncture meridians.
Is Dry Needling Painful?
Most patients do not feel the needle insertion. When a twitch response occurs, it may feel like a brief cramp or quick electrical sensation lasting less than a second. While momentarily uncomfortable, this response is expected and therapeutic—it indicates the muscle is responding to treatment.
Are the Needles Sterile?
Yes. We use only sterile, disposable needles.
I found Tara by chance with joint issues. Then chose her for injury and surgery recovery. Tara deftly combines excellent skills and valuable experience to personalize your physical therapy program. Through keen observation and focused listening, Tara guides you to successfully meeting your PT goals.— Sue F.