At Common Roots, we integrate advanced techniques like dry needling, trigger point therapy, motor points, and electroacupuncture to deliver effective, results driven pain relief. These methods are especially powerful for treating muscle tension, sports injuries, and chronic pain conditions.
Dry needling targets myofascial trigger points commonly known as “muscle knots” using fine, sterile needles to release tension, reduce inflammation, and restore healthy movement. In addition, as a licensed acupuncturist, I combine these techniques with the deep diagnostic wisdom of Chinese medicine. As a result, this integrative approach works congruently to help you relieve deep muscle tension, improve circulation, and address both the structural and energetic aspects of pain. This leads to faster and longer lasting results.
By blending modern dry needling, or trigger point therapy with time tested Chinese medicine and acupuncture principles, I tailor each session to relieve pain at its source while supporting your body’s natural healing response.
Whether you’re dealing with a debilitating condition such as back pain, migraines, or tight shoulders, this integrated approach can help you feel better, faster.
At Common Roots Acupuncture, patient safety and comfort are always our top priority. During a dry needling treatment your muscles may twitch or ache slightly, this is normal and to be expected. The sensation typically dissipates quickly once the needle is removed. With extensive training and experience, we strive to make your dry needling experience as comfortable as possible.
How Dry Needling Works
Targeting Trigger Points for Pain Relief and Muscle Function
1. Releases Hyper Irritable Muscle Fibers
The needle insertion directly targets trigger points which are tight knots of muscle fibers that are in constant contraction. This mechanical stimulation helps release these chronically contracted muscle segments.
2. Stimulates Local Twitch Response
The needle insertion triggers an involuntary muscle contraction called a local twitch response. This twitch helps reset abnormal muscle tone and break the pain-spasm cycle.
3. Increases Blood Flow & Oxygen
Needle insertion improves local circulation, bringing fresh oxygen and nutrients to the affected tissue while helping remove metabolic waste products that contribute to pain.
4. Reduces Pain Related Chemicals
Dry needling helps decrease inflammatory substances like Substance P and CGRP (Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide) that contribute to pain sensation and muscle tension.
5. Improves Neuromuscular Function
The treatment enhances communication between nerves and muscles, improving muscle coordination, strength, and overall functional movement patterns.
6. Reduces Nervous System Sensitization
Regular dry needling helps calm an overactive nervous system, reducing central sensitization and the body’s heightened response to pain signals.
As dry needling has continually increased in popularity, more studies have been done to assess it’s efficacy. For example, this umbrella review show that musculoskeletal pain responds exceptionally well to dry needling: Clinical Effectiveness of Dry Needling in Patients with Musculoskeletal Pain.
To learn more about the benefits of dry needling, check out our dry needling and trigger point therapy FAQ:
Ready to Relieve Your Pain?
Schedule your consultation today and take the first step towards pain free living.