Safety and Comfort: What to Expect During Your First Dry Needling Session
Dry needling is a targeted, evidence-based technique used by licensed physical therapists to reduce pain, relieve muscle tension, and improve movement. While it may look similar to acupuncture, dry needling is based on modern Western anatomy and neurophysiology—not traditional Chinese medicine.
During a session, your therapist inserts thin, sterile needles directly into myofascial trigger points—commonly known as “knots”—to create a local twitch response. This helps release tight muscle fibers, reset the nervous system, and improve blood flow to the affected area.
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Dry needling is particularly effective for treating chronic muscle pain, tension, and movement dysfunctions. It’s often used as part of a larger physical therapy treatment plan to accelerate healing, especially in areas like the neck, back, shoulders, and hips.
At FIXXED, we use dry needling thoughtfully and intentionally—never as a standalone quick fix, but as one of many tools to help you move and feel better.
Is Dry Needling Safe? What the Research and Providers Say
Dry needling is a safe and well-regarded technique when performed by licensed, trained professionals. At FIXXED, all of our physical therapists who perform dry needling have completed advanced certifications and hands-on training to ensure your experience is not only effective—but safe and comfortable.
The needles used are single-use, sterile, and incredibly thin—about the width of a human hair. They do not inject any substance, which is why the technique is called “dry.” Because there’s no medication involved, dry needling is a low-risk treatment with minimal side effects when performed correctly.
Research consistently shows that dry needling can help reduce pain and muscle tension, particularly in conditions like low back pain, neck stiffness, and sports-related muscle dysfunction. It's also widely accepted in clinical practice across the U.S., including in Massachusetts.
Your comfort is our priority. Before beginning, your therapist will explain exactly what to expect, answer your questions, and ensure you feel at ease throughout the session.
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What You Might Feel During and After Treatment
If you’re new to dry needling, it’s natural to wonder what it actually feels like. Most people are surprised by how quick and tolerable the experience is—especially with a skilled provider guiding the process.
During treatment, you may feel:
A quick tap as the needle enters the skin
A deep ache or twitch in the muscle when the needle hits a trigger point
A mild, muscle-like soreness that fades within 24–48 hours
These sensations are normal and often a sign that the targeted muscle is releasing tension. Some people even report feeling immediate relief or improved mobility in the treated area.
After your session, it's common to feel like you had a deep workout in the needled area. You may also feel looser, lighter, or more aware of your posture and movement patterns.
At FIXXED, we always pair dry needling with therapeutic movement and education, so you’re not just getting temporary relief—you’re building lasting change in how your body functions and feels.
Conditions Dry Needling Can Help Treat
Dry needling can be a powerful addition to your recovery plan—especially when pain, tightness, or restricted movement are holding you back from feeling your best.
At FIXXED, we often use dry needling to help with:
Back pain, including low back tension, stiffness, or postural discomfort
Neck and shoulder tightness, especially for those who sit or work at a desk for long hours
Hip and glute pain, often related to imbalances, repetitive movement, or postpartum recovery
Muscle overuse, whether from athletic training or daily stress
Movement restrictions, including pain or stiffness that limits your mobility
While dry needling is not a cure-all, it can be a game-changer when combined with strength training, movement education, and hands-on therapy. For women dealing with musculoskeletal pain—including those navigating postpartum changes—it offers relief, faster recovery, and improved function.
Our goal is always to treat the whole person, not just the symptom.
Your First Session at FIXXED: What to Expect
At FIXXED, your first dry needling session is all about comfort, clarity, and personalized care. We start with a one-on-one evaluation to understand your history, movement patterns, and specific concerns—whether you’re dealing with back pain, tension, or just looking for faster recovery.
If dry needling is the right fit for your goals, your therapist will explain how the treatment works, what areas will be addressed, and what you can expect to feel. You’ll have the chance to ask questions, share any hesitations, and fully understand your plan before the first needle is ever placed.
Treatment is always done at your pace. After needling, we’ll follow up with movement-based therapy, education, and recommendations to help you leave feeling better—and supported in your next steps.
If you’re in Haverhill and curious about whether dry needling could help you move with more ease, book your first visit with our team. We’re here to make the process approachable, effective, and tailored just for you.