Dry Needling

Dry needling is a service provided by certified physical therapists at Bay State Physical Therapy that use a very thin needle that is inserted into the tender spot of a muscle to “trigger” a contract/relax response. This in turn helps to draw oxygenated blood to the painful area to release muscle tension and promote healing. 

When muscles become overburdened, they can develop painful knots, called trigger points. Trigger points can be a source of longstanding pain that limits muscle function.

Common diagnoses that may benefit from dry needling:

  • Back, neck and sciatic pain
  • Shoulder and elbow pain
  • Hip pain
  • Headaches
  • Foot and ankle pain
dry needling of the neck

Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT DOES IT FEEL LIKE?

Most people do not feel the insertion of the needle. During the treatment, you may feel mild cramping or twitching as the tension is released from the trigger point.

CAN I EXERCISE AFTER MY SESSION?

Yes! It is encouraged to exercise and get back to your normal activities after dry needling.

WHAT SHOULD I DO AFTER MY DRY NEEDLING SESSION?

-Stay hydrated to avoid muscle soreness

-Gently massage the muscle for stimulation

-Movement and exercise are encouraged to keep the muscle loose

Why Choose Dry Needling?

See what our clinicians are saying about the benefits of dry needling:

“Utilizing dry needling has allowed me to get my patients out of pain more quickly.”

“I have been told by my patients that the addition of dry needling made the biggest difference in their pain relief.”

“Many patients notice significant relief within 1-2 dry needling sessions.”

“I have found dry needling significantly improves patients’ pain quickly, and at times more effectively, as it has the ability to reach deeper muscles that may be the culprits for chronic pain.”

Contact Bay State Physical Therapy today to learn more about the benefits of dry needling.

Available at:

Massachusetts locations:

Rhode Island locations: