Dry Needling

David G. Simons, MD, co-author of the Simons, Travell, and Simons Trigger Point Manual, has stated that, “Since no medical specialty claims skeletal muscle as their organ, it is often overlooked.”

Indeed, several studies have confirmed that myofascial pain is one of the most commonly ignored causes of persistent pain. Many of our patients report that previous healthcare providers rarely have included the detailed and specific muscle examination that is common at MOST. The hallmark feature of myofascial pain syndrome is a so-called “trigger point,” which can be responsible for prolonged pain and dysfunction. A common characteristic of trigger points is referred pain, which may confuse those clinicians who are not familiar with common referred pain patterns. Dr. Janet Travell, MD, perhaps best known as President Kennedy’s White House physician, has mapped out the referred pain patterns of most skeletal muscles.

Although trigger points and myofascial pain are poorly recognized worldwide, there is a growing number of scientific studies that confirm that trigger points are indeed a very common source of pain and dysfunction. Physical therapists at MOST are very involved with researchers and clinicians worldwide and are among the world’s top specialists in myofascial pain syndrome. Trigger point dry needling is one of the most effective treatment options to inactivate myofascial trigger points. Dry needling for the release of scar tissue is a relatively new approach but can yield rapid results in improving freedom of movement as well as pain reduction.  Sometimes electrical stimulation is utilized through the needles to affect pain reduction as well. Dry needling is rarely a stand alone modality however, and is usually combined with movement re-education or other soft tissue mobilization techniques.

Ralph Simpson and Jennifer Alexander are certified in dry needling through Myopain Seminars.  Myopain Seminars is the nation’s preeminent dry needle instruction format and was started by Dr. Jan Dommerholt (www.myopainseminars.com) Dr. Dommerholt taught the first dry needling courses for physical therapists in the USA in 1996. Dr Simpson is currently on the dry needling faculty for Myopain Seminars.  Several course instructors from other continuing education companies began their dry needling studies under Dr. Dommerholt.

Have questions about dry needling? Learn more about The Long-Standing Case of the Runner, and A Clinical Case Involving Persistent Neuromuscular Inhibition in An Alpine Skier.

For more information about trigger point dry needling and myofascial trigger point therapy, please do not hesitate to contact the MOST staff at (406) 862-2348.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Dry needling is a therapeutic technique used to address muscle pain, tightness, and movement restrictions. A trained healthcare professional inserts thin, sterile needles into targeted muscle tissue to help reduce discomfort, improve mobility, and support the body's natural recovery process.

  • Dry needling targets sensitive areas of muscle tissue, often referred to as trigger points. Trigger points can refer pain to distant as well as local tissues, by stimulating these areas, the treatment may help reduce muscle tension, reduce pain signals, improve strength, and improve range of motion. DN is a tool used in conjunction with a broader physical therapy or rehabilitation program and rarely stands alone as a one and done treatment. 

  • Dry needling may be beneficial for individuals experiencing neck pain, back pain, shoulder tension, hip pain, knee pain, headaches associated with muscle tightness, and certain sports-related injuries. A specialized form of needling is often very helpful in relieving excessive scar adhesions.  It may also help address muscle discomfort and movement limitations associated with overuse or repetitive activities.

  • Most patients experience minimal discomfort during dry needling. Some muscles are more likely to have an uncomfortable response than others as well. You may feel a slight pinch when the needle is inserted or a brief muscle twitch when a trigger point is stimulated. Some temporary soreness afterward is normal, similar to what you might experience following a workout.

  • Although both techniques use thin needles, dry needling and acupuncture differ in their underlying approaches.Traditional acupuncture is based on principles of Chinese medicine and mapped meridians and may address a broader range of health concerns. Dry needling focuses primarily on muscles, not meridians and musculoskeletal conditions, targeting scar tissue and trigger points to address pain and movement restrictions.

  • The number of sessions depends on your condition, symptoms, and treatment goals. Some patients notice improvements after one or two visits, while others benefit from additional treatments as part of a comprehensive rehabilitation plan. Your provider can recommend an appropriate approach following an evaluation.

  • Dry needling is generally considered safe when performed by a properly trained and qualified healthcare professional. Common side effects include temporary soreness, minor bruising, or light bleeding. Serious complications are rare but possible. Your provider will review your medical history and determine whether dry needling is appropriate for you.

  • Dry needling may help athletes and active individuals manage muscle tightness, discomfort, and restricted movement associated with certain sports injuries. Whether you're skiing, hiking, biking, or enjoying other outdoor activities around Whitefish, Montana, dry needling may complement a personalized rehabilitation and recovery program.

  • Following treatment, you may experience mild muscle soreness or fatigue for 24 to 48 hours. Gentle movement and following your provider's aftercare recommendations can help you return to normal activities comfortably. Your provider may also recommend specific stretches or exercises to support your recovery.

  • If you're considering dry needling in Whitefish, M.O.S.T. can help you explore whether this treatment is appropriate for your needs. A personalized evaluation can help identify the source of your discomfort and determine how dry needling may fit into your overall treatment and recovery goals.