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Dry Needling TherapyIn El Paso

Dry Needling involves the insertion of a thin filament needle to stimulate the healing process of soft tissues (muscle "trigger points", fascia, tendons and ligaments, etc.).

The result of dry needling is pain relief and restoration of healthy physiology.

El Paso Physical Therapy Services offers dry needling sessions at all of our clinics. Dry needling is an effective treatment for chronic pain (of neuropathic origin) with very few side effects. Our dry needling certified (DNS) physical therapists are highly-trained and committed to excellence and quality care for all patients.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dry Needling

What is a "trigger point"?

A "trigger point" is a hyperirritable point in a muscle that is associated with a hypersensitive palpable nodule, or “knot." This area becomes painful at the site and can also “radiate” in predictable patterns.

Does it hurt?

A healthy muscle feels very little discomfort with insertion of this needle. However if the muscle is sensitive and shortened or has active trigger points within it, the subject will feel a sensation like a muscle cramp (the "twitch" response).

What is the difference between Dry Needling and Acupuncture?

The objectives and philosophy behind the use of dry needling by physical therapists is not based on ancient theories or tenets of traditional Chinese medicine. The performance of modern dry needling by physical therapists is based on Western Neuroanatomy and modern scientific study of the musculoskeletal and nervous systems.

Both Dry Needling and Acupuncture do, however, use the same tool; a solid needle filament.

Who can benefit from Dry Needling?

Almost anyone experiencing a variety of pain problems including, but not limited to:

  • Acute/Chronic injuries
  • Headaches
  • Neck/Back pain
  • Tendinitis
  • Muscle Spasms
  • "Sciatica"
  • Hip/Knee pain
  • Muscle strains
  • Fibromyalgia
  • "Tennis/Golfer's Elbow"
  • Patellar Femoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS)
  • Overuse injuries

Are there any side effects to Dry Needling?

Side effects may vary among individuals. Typically, only mild muscle soreness or skin bruising.

Is Dry Needling covered by my health insurance?

In most cases it is a fee or cash-based service.

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • A physical therapy visit lasts about 40-60 minutes. The actual contents of the visit vary based on your diagnosis/need, but typically what happens is:

    1. You check in with the receptionist, make any appointments necessary, and we discuss your health insurance benefits with you.
    2. You go into the gym. You can change clothes if you need to, then begin therapy.
    3. You perform 6-8 various exercises and stretches. These can include therapeutic band exercises, light body weight exercises, or minimal weights. The stretches will promote strength, stability, improved range of motion, and pain relief.
    4. We can initiate other techniques to include manual work, taping, cupping, and dry needling as needed.
    5. The therapist makes recommendations based on your progress. These can include altering the frequency of visits, making additions/alterations to your home exercise plan, or things to do before your next visit.

  • We recommend budgeting 40-60 minutes for a typical therapy session. The only exception to this will be your first visit, which can take about 20 minutes longer due to the physical therapy evaluation your therapist will provide. We also recommend showing up about 10-15 minutes early to your first visit. This way, you can complete the paperwork before your visit time and streamline the process.

  • If we are asking you to do something that is hurting too much, let us know! Physical therapy should not be severely painful. It is not common to be so sore that patients are in pain or it affects their daily life. If this ever happens during or after an appointment, let us know and we will adapt your program.

  • During your initial evaluation, your therapist may ask you a number of questions to determine what the cause of your pain is. This can include questions about your sleep habits, activity level, and work environment. They will also ask for a medical history, and then typically ask direct questions about where and when you experience pain.

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