Trigger Point Dry Needling (TDN) involves placing a small solid filament needle into a muscular trigger point in order to cause a localized twitch response. This treatment is also known as Intramuscular manual therapy. Although a similar needle is used in acupuncture, it is not an acupuncture treatment. The primary goal of trigger point dry needling is to improve joint range of motion, decrease pain, and restore function.
Though unlikely, there are risks associated with TDN. The most common complications are needle insertion pain, muscle soreness, fatigue, and bruising. Most patients experience no complications and are able to perform all normal activity after the session. Dry needling is performed by a skilled licensed physical therapist. If you are interested or would like more information on trigger point dry needling please call us at (202) 660-1820.