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Frequently Asked Questions-
Dry Needling

Explore the benefits and process of dry needling at our Philadelphia clinic with our comprehensive FAQ section. Our expert practitioners are here to guide you through this safe and effective technique.

dry needling treatment for pain relief

FAQ- Dry Needling Philadelphia

Dry Needling near Old City, Philadelphia

What is dry needling?

Dry needling is a technique used to treat myofascial pain by targeting hyperactive trigger points and tight muscles. It involves the insertion of fine, sterile, single-use acupuncture needles directly into tight bands of muscle or trigger points.

What conditions can dry needling treat?

Dry needling is effective for treating various musculoskeletal conditions, including back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, sports injuries, and chronic muscle tension.

Is dry needling the same as acupuncture?

While both techniques use acupuncture needles, they differ in their approach and focus. Dry needling targets specific trigger points and tight muscles, while acupuncture focuses on balancing the body's energy (Qi) by stimulating specific points along the meridians.

How long does a dry needling session last?

A dry needling session generally lasts between 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the complexity of your condition and the number of areas to be treated.

"...phenomenal experience."

What a phenomenal experience. Jason is thorough in his assessment and explanation and also makes sure you are comfortable at every step of the treatment process. Highly recommend for veterans of acupuncture and newcomers alike.

Google Review

FAQ - Dry Needling Near Me

Dry Needling near Fishtown, Philadelphia

What should I expect during a dry needling treatment?
During a dry needling treatment, fine needles are gently inserted into tight muscles or trigger points. You may feel mild discomfort, pressure, or a "twitch response" as the needle reaches the target area. This sensation is typically brief and indicates that the treatment is effectively targeting the muscle fibers.

Is dry needling safe?
Yes, dry needling is safe when performed by a trained and licensed practitioner. While there may be some mild discomfort during the treatment, the risk of serious side effects is low.

 

How many dry needling sessions will I need?

The number of sessions required varies based on your specific condition and individual response to treatment. Many patients experience noticeable improvements after just one or two sessions, while others may require several treatments to achieve optimal results.

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FAQ - Best Dry Needling Philadelphia

Dry Needling near Northern Liberties, Philadelphia

Can I combine dry needling with acupuncture?

Yes, dry needling and acupuncture can be combined to provide a comprehensive treatment plan that targets both specific muscular issues and overall body balance. Combining these therapies can help enhance the effectiveness of your treatment and speed up the healing process.

What should I do after a dry needling session?

After a dry needling session, it's essential to stay hydrated, perform gentle stretching, and avoid strenuous activities for the rest of the day. You may experience mild soreness, but this typically subsides within 24-48 hours.

Is dry needling covered by insurance?

Some insurance plans cover dry needling, but coverage varies depending on your specific policy. It's essential to check with your insurance provider to determine if dry needling is covered under your plan. At Summit we do not work directly with insurance. Our patient have the option to use an FSA or HSA card as well as receive a superbill for reimbursement. All treatments must be paid for at the time of service at our office near Northern Liberties in Philadelphia.

"...I've been twice and already noticed results"

I've been to Summit twice so far for hip/sciatic pain and have already noticed results. I felt like Jason took the time to hear about the issues I've been having, and had a clear knowledgable approach to treatment. He made great movement suggestions for in between appointments as well. Would highly recommend seeing him and visiting his practice!

Google Review

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What Should I Expect During My Dry Needling Treatment?

At Summit Acupuncture in Philadelphia, we specialize in a unique and effective technique called dry needling. This treatment is designed to provide pain relief and help you regain function by targeting trigger points and tight muscles. In this section, we will guide you through what to expect during your dry needling treatment, ensuring you are well-prepared and informed.

 

Initial Consultation
Before your dry needling treatment, our expert practitioners will conduct a thorough assessment of your condition, including your medical history, symptoms, and goals for treatment. This information will help us develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

 

Preparation
For your comfort, we recommend wearing loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the treatment areas. If needed, we may provide draping to ensure your privacy during the session. That said, come as you are and don't worry too much about your attire. We have plenty of drapes to help if you're coming from work or a workout!

Dry Needling Procedure
Dry needling involves the insertion of fine, sterile, single-use acupuncture needles directly into tight bands of muscle or trigger points. Our experienced practitioners will gently insert the needles, often with a slight tapping motion. You may feel a mild discomfort, pressure, or a "twitch response" as the needle reaches the target area. This sensation is typically brief and indicates that the treatment is effectively targeting the muscle fibers. Most patients report this sensation feels odd and achey but not extremely painful.

 

Duration
A dry needling treatment generally lasts between 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the complexity of your condition and the number of areas to be treated. Our practitioners will continuously monitor your comfort and response to the treatment, making adjustments as needed to optimize pain relief and effectiveness.

 

Post-Treatment Care
After the treatment, you may experience some temporary soreness or stiffness in the treated areas. This is a normal response and typically resolves within 24 to 48 hours. To aid in recovery and promote optimal results, we recommend gentle stretching, staying hydrated, and applying heat. Generally we do not recommend ice after dry needling, motor point acupuncture, or traditional acupuncture. Heat is best and can be applied via epsom salt bath soak, heating pad, or simply a hot shower. We almost always recommend Evil Bone Water or Dr. Guo's 37 Healing Salve post treatment when we are treating any pain condition. These supplements are available at our office for purchase after your visit.

Follow-Up Dry Needling Appointments
Depending on your specific condition and treatment goals, a series of dry needling sessions may be recommended. Our practitioners will work with you to develop a follow-up plan that is best.


At our orthopedic acupuncture clinic, we are dedicated to providing you with the highest standard of care using evidence-based techniques like dry needling. Our goal is to help you regain function and enjoy life free from pain. If you're interested in learning more or scheduling a treatment, please contact us today.

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