About Dry Needling

What Is Dry Needling?

Dry needling is a modern treatment technique used by licensed healthcare professionals to relieve muscle pain and improve mobility. At Peterson Chiropractic in Durham, we use dry needling to target muscular trigger points — the tight knots that cause discomfort and restrict movement.

While dry needling may look similar to acupuncture, it is not the same. Acupuncture is based on traditional Chinese medicine and energy pathways, while dry needling is rooted in modern Western medicine and focuses on musculoskeletal dysfunction.

How Does Dry Needling Work?

The treatment involves inserting a thin, sterile filament needle into a trigger point — usually a taut band of skeletal muscle. This stimulates a twitch response, increases blood flow, reduces inflammation, and helps the muscle return to a normal resting state.

Patients often describe the feeling as a dull ache, twitch, or brief muscle cramp — but many experience relief shortly afterward.

What Conditions Can Dry Needling Help?

Dry needling can be an effective treatment for:

• Chronic neck and back pain

• Shoulder pain and rotator cuff issues

• Tension headaches and migraines

• Tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow

• Hip and gluteal pain

• Plantar fasciitis and foot pain

• Sciatica and nerve irritation

• Post-surgical muscle tightness

• Athletic overuse injuries

By releasing trigger points, we restore movement and reduce pain at the source — not just mask it.

What to Expect During a Session

At Peterson Chiropractic, we begin with a thorough assessment to determine whether dry needling is appropriate for your condition. If so, the treatment usually takes 15–30 minutes depending on the number of areas treated.

Most patients experience:

• Mild soreness afterward (similar to post-workout soreness)

• Immediate relief or progressive improvement over several sessions

• Little to no downtime

Dry needling is often used alongside chiropractic adjustments, manual therapy, or therapeutic exercise to maximize results.

Is Dry Needling Safe?

Yes — when performed by a trained and licensed practitioner, dry needling is safe and effective. At our Durham office, dry needling is performed by Dr. Erick Peterson, DC, CCSP, who is certified and experienced in treating a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions.

We use single-use, sterile needles and follow strict hygiene and safety protocols. Most side effects are minor, such as slight bruising or temporary soreness.

How Is Dry Needling Different from Acupuncture?

Although both use fine needles, the similarities stop there. Here’s a quick comparison:

Why Choose Peterson Chiropractic for Dry Needling in Durham?

At Peterson Chiropractic, we treat athletes, non-athletes, and everyone in between. Whether you're recovering from an injury or managing chronic pain, dry needling may be the missing piece in your recovery plan.

Located near Duke University at 816 Broad Street, Durham, NC, our clinic offers a range of evidence-based treatments to get you feeling your best.

Ready to Feel Better?

If you're curious about dry needling or wonder if it’s right for your condition, call us at (919) 286-7202 or schedule an appointment online. We’re happy to answer your questions and walk you through the process.