Dry Needling
Dry needling is a physical therapy treatment in which a licensed therapist places a thin, sterile needle into tight muscle to reduce muscle tension and pain and help you move better. It is not acupuncture. We offer dry needling at our clinic in Chubbuck, Idaho, and Matt Krammen, PT, DPT, Cert DN is certified in it.
How trigger point dry needling works
Your therapist inserts a sterile, solid needle through the skin into the tendon, ligament or muscle that is causing trouble. These tight spots are called trigger points, and the aim is to release them, ease pain and improve mobility. No medication goes in.
If you are searching for dry needling near me in Chubbuck or Pocatello, this is what we offer: some clinics call the technique intramuscular stimulation. We use it together with exercise and hands-on techniques, not as a stand-alone treatment. After a full evaluation, your therapist tells you whether it is the right choice for you.
Dry needling vs acupuncture
Dry needling
Built on modern study of the muscle and nervous systems and on Western medical principles. The needle goes to the muscles, tendons or ligaments that are painful, and the goal is less tension and better movement.
Acupuncture
A separate practice with its own traditions. Dry needling uses similar needles, but it is a different treatment, and we do not present it as acupuncture.
Does dry needling hurt, and how will I feel afterward?
Most patients report little to no discomfort. Our therapists work to keep it as painless as possible.
- Some people feel a brief twitch as the needle reaches the muscle, like a quick cramp or ache
- Muscle soreness can follow for 24 to 48 hours and goes away on its own
- Ice or heat packs and plenty of fluids can ease the soreness at home
- You can usually go about your day, with sore spots in mind
What dry needling helps with
Our therapists use it for muscle pain and tension in many areas. Each of these pages names it:
Who should check with us before dry needling
Dry needling is not right for everyone. Tell your therapist before treatment if any of these apply, and we will decide together:
- A bleeding disorder
- You take blood thinners (ask us first)
- You are pregnant
- You have a strong fear of needles
Cost, coverage and getting started
Your therapist treats you with dry needling after an evaluation, alongside manual therapy and exercise, at our Chubbuck, Idaho clinic. We see patients from Chubbuck and Pocatello, Idaho.
Idaho allows direct access to physical therapy, so you do not need a referral from a doctor to begin. Some insurance plans, and Medicare typically, may still require one. If you are unsure, call us and we will check your plan.
We accept most insurance plans and verify your benefits before you arrive. Auto injury liens, Medpay and workers compensation are accepted, and there is a self-pay option. Call the office to confirm your plan.
Related care
Dry needling in Chubbuck, Idaho
Call or request an appointment at our Chubbuck clinic. We see patients from Chubbuck, Pocatello and the surrounding area.
Dry needling physical therapy is part of a plan with exercise and hands-on care, not a stand-alone fix.
We see patients at our Chubbuck clinic from Chubbuck and Pocatello, Idaho.