Dry Needling: What to Expect
- Dr. Ezara Greene
- Jul 3
- 3 min read
A Guide for Kids, Teens, and Their Families
What Is Dry Needling?
Dry needling is a treatment that physical therapists use to help muscles relax and loosen, move better, and feel less painful.
A very thin, sterile needle is placed into a tight or sore muscle. There is no medicine or injection in the needle, it's called "dry" because nothing is injected.
Think of it like helping a muscle that is "stuck" or "knotted" reset itself.
Why Might I Need Dry Needling?
Dry needling may help if you have:
-Muscle tightness-Muscle knots ("trigger points")-Pain during sports or gymnastics-Stiffness or limited movement-Soreness that isn't improving or getting better-Muscle cramps or overworked muscles
How Does It Work?
When the needle goes into a tight muscle, your body responds by:
Helping the muscle relax
Improving blood flow to the area
Reducing pain signals
Helping the muscle move more normally
Improving flexibility and motion
Sometimes the muscle will make a quick little jump or twitch. This is normal and often means the tight muscle is responding.
What Happens During Treatment?
Your physical therapist will explain everything first.
The skin is cleaned.
A very thin needle is placed into the muscle.
The needle is gently moved up and down (called pistoning) for about 5 seconds.
The needle is removed.
Most treatments only take a few minutes.
What Does It Feel Like?
Everyone feels it a little differently.
You might feel:
-A small pressure when the needle goes in-Pressure in the muscle-A quick muscle twitch or jump-A cramping feeling that lasts a few seconds-Soreness afterward, similar to a workout
Many kids are surprised that it hurts less than they expected!
Am I In Control?
YES!
You are always in charge of your body.
You can ask questions at any time.
You can tell your therapist if you need a break.
You can ask for the needle to be removed immediately.
The treatment will stop whenever you want it to stop.
You never have to "tough it out."
If you say "stop," the needle comes out.
What Happens Afterward?
It is normal to have:
Mild soreness for 1–5 days
A feeling like you exercised the muscle
Temporary tenderness
Many people notice:
Less pain
Better movement
Easier stretching
Improved sports performance
Is Dry Needling Safe?
Dry needling is very safe when performed by a trained physical therapist.
Your therapist uses:
Sterile, single-use needles
Clean techniques
PPE precautions
Careful placement based on your injury and goals
Tips for a Great Session
Before your appointment:
- Eat a snack or meal- Drink plenty of water- Wear comfortable clothing
-Ask any questions you have
-Avoid caffeine
-Do not take any anti-inflammatories like ibuprofen, Advil, or Tylenol.
After your appointment:
- Keep drinking water- Move around normally if comfortable
-Use a heating pad for 10-15 minutes on the site that was dry needled
-Tell your therapist how you feel at your next appointment
Questions Kids Often Ask:
"Is it a shot?"
No. There is no medicine and nothing is injected.
"Will it hurt?"
Most kids say it feels strange more than painful. Any discomfort usually lasts only a few seconds.
"What if I'm nervous?"
That's okay! Lots of people are nervous at first. Tell your therapist how you're feeling and they'll help you through it.
"Can I stop if I don't like it?"
Absolutely. You are in control the entire time.
Remember...
Dry needling is only one tool we use to help you feel better.-Your comfort and safety are the most important things.-You are always in control of the treatment.-We will work together to help you get back to the sport you love!
Questions? Just ask your therapist during the session, we're happy to explain everything before we begin.
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