Targeting Pain At The Source For Faster Relief
When muscles stay tight, knotted or irritated, it can feel like nothing helps — stretching doesn’t release the tension, massage gives only temporary relief, and the pain keeps returning. That’s where dry needling therapy offers a unique solution.
At Sports Rehab PT, our certified dry needling specialists use this advanced technique to release trigger points, restore movement and help you finally get lasting relief from muscle pain. Dry needling is often combined with your larger physical therapy program for even better results — helping you address both the source of the pain and its contributing factors. Our dry needling physical therapy is available at our Bridgeport, Laredo, Springtown, Ponder, Decatur, Weatherford and Willow Park locations.
What Is Dry Needling?
Dry needling is a treatment where your physical therapist inserts a very fine, solid needle (called a filiform needle) directly into tight muscle tissue or trigger points — areas where the muscle has become irritated, hardened or “knotted.” The goal is to release these tight spots, restore normal muscle function and reduce pain.
Dry Needling vs. Acupuncture
While both use fine needles, dry needling is not based on Eastern medicine or energy pathways like acupuncture. Instead, dry needling is rooted in Western medical science, targeting muscle dysfunction and soft tissue restrictions directly.
What Conditions Can Dry Needling Help Treat?
Dry needling can provide significant relief for a wide range of painful conditions, including:
- Spinal issues (neck, mid-back and lower back pain)
- Muscle cramps or spasms
- Whiplash injuries
- Migraines and tension headaches
- Tendinitis (such as tennis elbow or rotator cuff issues)
- Joint pain (hips, knees, shoulders, ankles and more)
- Athletic overuse injuries
- Chronic muscle tightness and restricted range of motion
Does Dry Needling Hurt?
What to Expect During Treatment — Sensations, Safety, and Relief
One of the most common questions we get is: Does dry needling hurt?
You may feel a brief twitch or muscle spasm when the needle hits the trigger point, followed by soreness similar to post-workout fatigue. Most patients describe it as very tolerable — and well worth the relief they feel afterward.
Your therapist will explain every step, adjust technique to your comfort and closely monitor your response throughout the treatment.
How Does Dry Needling Work?
When a trigger point is needled, several healing responses occur inside your body:
- Reduces pain — Loosens the knotted muscle fibers, relieving pressure on surrounding joints
- Improves flexibility — Deactivates trigger points and improves muscle length and joint movement
- Improves muscle activation — Allows weakened muscles to contract and stabilize more effectively
- Stimulates healing — Triggers a mild local inflammatory response to stimulate your body’s natural repair processes, including collagen production
- Improves circulation — Increases blood flow to the treated area, bringing fresh oxygen and nutrients to damaged tissue
Many patients feel immediate improvement in range of motion and reduced pain — often after just one session.
Why Choose Sports Rehab PT For Dry Needling?
At Sports Rehab PT, your care is always provided by highly trained, certified therapists who use dry needling safely and effectively as part of your customized treatment plan.
- Certified dry needling providers in Hico, Stephenville, Weatherford and Willow Park
- One-on-one professional physical therapy sessions
- Comprehensive treatment approach combining dry needling with manual therapy, exercise and education
- Targeted plans designed for your specific diagnosis and goals
- Compassionate care that makes your comfort a priority
We don’t just insert needles — we build a full plan that supports your long-term recovery.
What Kind Of Pain Does Dry Needling Help With?
Physical Therapy For Pain Symptoms
Dry needling can be performed on most areas of the body that involve muscle tissue and trigger points. If you have pain in nearly any area fo your body, dry needling may be used to help you heal.
Ankle Pain
Sprains, instability or stiffness in the ankle can linger without proper care. Therapy improves strength, balance and joint support to prevent setbacks.
Back Pain
From sharp low back pain to nerve-related sciatica, therapy addresses the root cause. We help you move confidently without recurring pain.
Elbow Pain
Elbow pain from overuse or strain can disrupt everything from work to workouts. Therapy focuses on relieving inflammation and restoring function.
Foot Pain
Whether it’s heel pain, arch discomfort or stress from walking, we treat the cause. Therapy helps you regain comfort and ease with every step.
Hand Pain
Pain or stiffness in the hands can make everyday tasks difficult. Therapy strengthens and mobilizes joints to restore movement and reduce discomfort.
Hip Pain
Hip pain may come from the joint, muscles or nearby nerves. We identify the source and guide you back to stable, pain-free movement.
Knee Pain
Knee pain can make walking, climbing or squatting painful. Therapy strengthens surrounding muscles and restores safe, functional motion.
Neck Pain
Tightness, stiffness or radiating pain in the neck can interfere with daily life. Therapy improves mobility, reduces tension and supports long-term relief.
Shoulder Pain
Shoulder injuries can limit how you lift, reach or move. We help restore strength, mobility and comfort through targeted rehab.
Start Targeting Your Pain At The Source
If tight, painful muscles are limiting your movement or slowing your recovery, dry needling near you at Sports Rehab PT may be the missing piece. Our experienced team is here to help you break the pain cycle and move forward with confidence.
Contact us today to schedule your dry needling evaluation at one of our certified locations.
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