Electric Dry Needling: Benefits, Techniques, and What to Expect for Pain Relief
- Dr. David Didlake, DPT
- Sep 26, 2023
- 5 min read
Updated: Sep 2
What is Dry Needling Therapy?
Dry needling, also known as trigger point dry needling, is a modern physical therapy technique that uses fine, sterile needles to target myofascial trigger points and relieve musculoskeletal pain. Unlike acupuncture, dry needling is based on Western medicine principles and is highly effective for treating chronic pain, muscle tightness, and sports injuries. Electric dry needling, which combines traditional needling with electrical stimulation, offers even greater pain relief and faster recovery for many patients.
How Does Dry Needling Work?
During a dry needling session, a licensed physical therapist inserts single-use, monofilament needles into specific areas of the body—often where muscles are tight or painful. These needles are extremely thin (0.25-0.30mm), about 60-65% smaller than typical injection needles, making the procedure virtually painless for most people.
Unlike hypodermic needles, dry needling needles are solid and glide through tissue with minimal discomfort. Most patients feel only the guide tube against their skin, not the needle itself.
Common Conditions Treated with Dry Needling
Dry needling is supported by scientific research and has proven effective for a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including:
Shoulder impingement
TMJ dysfunction
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Knee osteoarthritis
Plantar fasciitis
Piriformis syndrome
Electric Dry Needling vs. Traditional Dry Neeling: Key Differences
The Needles Used in Dry Needling
While traditional dry needling involves manual needle techniques, electric dry needling (also called electro-dry needling) pairs in-situ needles with mild electrical stimulation. This combination has been shown to:
Reduce pain in both acute and chronic conditions
Improve blood flow to injured tissues
Reduce inflammation at the cellular level
Enhance collagen synthesis for tissue repair
Potentially reduce reliance on opioid medications
Modern Dry Needling Techniques
Dry needling is more than just "pistoning" (rapidly moving the needle in and out of a trigger point). Modern techniques include:
In-situ needling: Leaving needles in place for a set period
Fanning: Redirecting the needle to treat a broader area
Coning: Creating a three-dimensional treatment pattern
Electrical stimulation: Applying a gentle current for enhanced results
Our local Ellisville clinic almost always incorporates electrical stimulation with dry needling treatments. The combination delivers superior outcomes compared to either technique alone.
Dry Needling vs. Acupuncture: Which is Right for You
While both dry needling and acupuncture use similar thin needles, their philosophies and applications differ:
Dry Needling | Acupuncture |
Based on Western medicine and physiology | Based on Traditional Chinese Medicine |
Targets specific musculoskeletal dysfunctions | Aims to balance energy (Qi) flow along meridians |
Focuses on trigger points and tissue healing | Addresses energy pathways |
Performed by a licensed physical therapist | Performed by licensed acupuncturists |
Conditions Treated by Electric Dry Needling
Research demonstrates that electric dry needling can effectively help those suffering from:
Head and Neck Issues
Chronic headaches including migraines
Neck pain with or without radiating symptoms
TMJ disorders and facial pain
Upper Body Conditions
Shoulder impingement and rotator cuff issues
Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Lower Body Pain
Hip osteoarthritis
Knee osteoarthritis and pain
Plantar fasciitis
Shin splints
Back Problems
Low back pain (acute and chronic)
Piriformis syndrome
Sciatica
What to Expect During Your Electric Dry Needling Treatment
Your session will be performed by a qualified healthcare professional specially trained in electric dry needling. Here’s what you can expect:
Assessment: The practitioner identifies the appropriate treatment areas.
Needle Insertion: Ultra-thin, single-use sterile needles are gently inserted.
Sensation: You may feel a brief muscle twitch or dull ache—a positive response!
Electrical Stimulation: Applied at therapeutic frequencies for enhanced effect.
Duration: Needles typically remain in place for 15-20 minutes.
Aftercare: You may experience immediate relief or improvement within 24-48 hours. Mild soreness or bruising, similar to post-exercise soreness, is normal and usually resolves within 24-48 hours.
Is Electric Dry Needling Right for You?
Electric dry needling is a safe and effective treatment when used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for those suffering from acute or chronic pain. It's particularly beneficial for conditions that haven't responded well to other approaches.
However, dry needling may not be appropriate for everyone, including those with:
Needle phobias
Certain bleeding disorders
Compromised immune systems
Pregnancy (in specific areas)
FAQ Regarding Electric Dry Needling
Is dry needling painful?
Dry needling is not painful. However, dry needling can cause soreness for 24-48 hours following treatment. Some patients report sensations of a deep ache, tingling, or euphoria.
How many sessions of electric dry needling will I need?
The number of sessions will vary per person, and per condition. However, a general number of electric dry needling sessions can range anywhere from 4-10.
Is dry needling covered by insurance?
Dry needling is not covered by insurance. However, FSA and HSA can be used to pay for dry needling services.
What's the difference between dry needling and acupuncture?
The biggest difference between the two treatments is that dry needling is based on Western Medicine research, whereas acupuncture is based on traditional Chinese medicine.
Are there any side effects of electric dry needling?
Most patients have little to no side effects following an electric dry needling treatment. However, some patients can feel lethargic, sleepy, light headed, euphoric, sore, or achy.
Book Your Electric Dry Needling Consultation Today
If you're tired of living with pain, electric dry needling might be the solution you've been searching for. Our fellowship trained osteopractic physical therapist will assess your condition and determine if this approach could benefit you.
Contact us today at 636.777.0973 to schedule your appointment or book online.
Here's to your health!
Dr. David Didlake, DPT
PT, Cert. SMT/DN, CSCS, Cert. TPI Medical Level 3, Dip. Osteopractic, FAAOMPT
Owner, Integrative Therapeutics "Home of the Saint Louis Golf Doc"
Follow me @theintegrativeclinic @thestlgolfdoc
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References
For those interested in the scientific evidence behind electric dry needling, we've included some key research citations:
Butts R, et al. (2021) - Electric dry needling and chronic pain management
Dunning J, et al. (2014) - Effectiveness of dry needling with electrical stimulation
Fang J. (2014) - Neurobiological mechanisms of acupuncture
Lima RC, et al. (2010) - Electroacupuncture and blood flow
Almeida RT, et al. (2014) - Anti-inflammatory effects of electrical stimulation
Corbett MS, et al. (2013) - Acupuncture and osteoarthritis
Dunning J, et al. (2022) - TMJ dysfunction and needling therapy
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before beginning any new treatment.
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