Also known as Functional Dry Needling, or FDN, this effective modality involves inserting acupuncture needles into trigger points, also known as myofascial trigger points, within muscles to either stimulate movement or relaxation. Dr. Drew and Dr. Christine are both certified in Functional Dry Needling and often use it as an adjunct therapy along with chiropractic adjustments. At LHCC, there is no additional charge for FND as it is included in the chiropractic visit fee.

The goal of dry needling is to stimulate these trigger points, which are often associated with tightness, muscle knots, and referred pain patterns. By inserting needles directly into these points, practitioners aim to elicit a local twitch response, which is a reflexive contraction of the muscle fibers. This twitch response helps release tension and improve blood flow to the affected area, promoting muscle relaxation and pain relief.

While dry needling is similar to acupuncture, it is not the same. Dry needling is like the “Western Medicine” version of acupuncture: it focuses on the physiological and anatomical aspects of muscle function and pain relief. Traditional acupuncture (originating in Eastern cultures) a broad range of techniques to determine needle placement including assessing the patient’s pulse, tongue and energy flow.  During a dry needling session, thin needles are inserted into specific trigger points, also known as myofascial trigger points, within muscles or connective tissue.

Dry needling can be beneficial for a variety of musculoskeletal conditions, including chronic pain, tension headaches, neck and back pain, shoulder impingement syndrome, tennis elbow, and sciatica, among others. 

One of the advantages of dry needling is its ability to directly target and release tight or dysfunctional muscle tissue, providing both immediate and long-term pain relief. While some patients may experience mild discomfort or temporary soreness during or after a dry needling session, many report significant improvements in pain, muscle function, and overall well-being.