Functional Dry Needling
Targeted relief for pain, stiffness and muscle dysfunction
What is Functional Dry Needling?
Functional Dry Needling is a specialized technique used by trained physical therapists to treat pain and dysfunction in muscles, joints and connective tissues. Using a fine, sterile needle inserted into specific trigger points, tight bands of muscle often referred to as “knots”, Functional dry needling can relieve tension, reduce pain and restore movement.
At Bryan, our licensed therapists use dry needling as part of a personalized therapy plan to help you move and feel better. It’s often combined with exercise, manual therapy and other physical therapy techniques to enhance your results and accelerate recovery.
What Functional Dry Needling Treats
Functional Dry Needling is a versatile treatment that can benefit a wide range of musculoskeletal and neuromuscular conditions, especially when other conservative treatments haven’t worked. Some of the most common conditions treated with dry needling include:
- Tendonitis (e.g., tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, Achilles tendonitis)
- Chronic muscle pain
- Tension-related headaches and migraines
- Muscle strains or overuse injuries
- Neck, shoulder, back or hip pain
- Joint stiffness or limited range of motion
- Plantar fasciitis
- Sciatica
- Fibromyalgia and other chronic pain syndromes
How Dry Needling Works
During a session, your therapist inserts a thin filament needle through the skin and directly into the affected muscle tissue or trigger point. This stimulation causes what’s known as a “local twitch response,” which helps release tension and improve blood flow to the area. That twitch is both a diagnostic and therapeutic indicator, signaling that the needle has hit the right spot and that the muscle is responding.
The goal is to reduce pain, improve flexibility and restore normal movement by releasing tight muscles and reducing pressure on surrounding nerves and joints. Most patients feel some level of relief immediately, though a series of treatments is often needed to achieve lasting improvement.
Why Choose Bryan?
At Bryan, our therapists combine advanced training, deep anatomical knowledge and personalized care to deliver effective dry needling treatment. We take the time to explain the process, answer your questions and integrate dry needling with your broader therapy goals. Treatment is available at multiple locations and always performed by experienced, licensed providers with specialized certification in dry needling.
Is Dry Needling Right for You?
Functional Dry Needling is appropriate for many individuals experiencing chronic pain, restricted movement or tension-related issues. It is most often used in combination with other physical therapy treatments to support overall recovery and mobility.
Your Bryan physical therapist will perform a thorough evaluation to determine whether dry needling is a safe and effective part of your personalized care plan. Most patients require multiple sessions, spaced over time, for optimal results.
What to Expect During and After Treatment
One thing to keep in mind is that dry needling is not the same as acupuncture. While both use similar tools, dry needling is based on Western medical principles and focuses on treating musculoskeletal dysfunction and pain patterns — not energy meridians or traditional Eastern practices.
During Treatment
Many people feel little to no pain when the needle is inserted. You may feel a deep ache or cramp as the needle stimulates the muscle, which is a normal and desired response. Sessions are typically short and are customized based on your comfort level and therapy goals.
After Treatment
Some soreness, fatigue, or minor bruising at the needling site is normal and typically fades within 24–48 hours. Using heat, gentle stretching or light activity can help reduce post-treatment soreness. Your therapist will also guide you on home care to support your recovery.
