Dry Needling: Evidence-Based Relief for Muscle Pain and Trigger Points
What Is Dry Needling?
Dry needling is a clinically proven technique that targets myofascial trigger points, which are tight bands of muscle that cause localized pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Unlike traditional acupuncture, which focuses on energy flow, dry needling directly treats musculoskeletal dysfunction.
At Metro Wellness NYC, Dr. Jessie Gao, our licensed acupuncturist, combines her acupuncture expertise with modern dry needling techniques to provide precise, effective, and evidence-based treatment for pain and muscle tension.
💡 How it Works: Fine, sterile needles are inserted into tight muscle fibers, stimulating a release response that improves blood flow, reduces inflammation, and restores proper muscle function.
When Dry Needling Works Best
Dry needling is particularly effective for:
Chronic neck, shoulder, and lower back pain
Trigger points or muscle knots from repetitive stress or posture
Sports-related tightness or delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS)
Restricted range of motion due to muscular tension
Fibromyalgia and myofascial pain syndromes
🩺 Evidence Insight:
A 2021 systematic review in The Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy found dry needling significantly reduced pain intensity in chronic neck and shoulder pain patients, with improvements maintained at 4–12 weeks.
Another study in Pain Medicine (2022) showed dry needling combined with physical therapy increased range of motion by up to 30% and decreased disability scores more than exercise alone.
Research in Complementary Therapies in Medicine demonstrates that dry needling triggers neuromuscular relaxation and reduces localized inflammation, making it highly effective for persistent muscular pain.
These studies confirm that dry needling is not just temporary relief — it addresses the underlying dysfunction of tight or inhibited muscles.
What to Expect in a Session
Assessment: Dr. Jessie Gao evaluates your posture, muscle tone, and trigger points.
Targeted Treatment: Thin, sterile needles are inserted into tight muscle fibers. You may feel a brief twitch or mild pressure — a sign that the muscle is releasing tension.
Duration: Sessions typically last 15–30 minutes, depending on the number and location of trigger points.
Post-Treatment: Mild soreness may occur for 24–48 hours, followed by improved mobility, reduced pain, and better muscle function.
Many patients notice immediate improvement, and optimal results are achieved after a short series of treatments combined with physical therapy or targeted exercises.
Why Dry Needling Is Highly Effective
Rapid Pain Reduction: Stimulates the muscle to release tight knots and spasms.
Improved Mobility: Increases range of motion, making movement easier and reducing strain.
Accelerated Recovery: Enhances blood flow, reduces local inflammation, and supports tissue repair.
Evidence-Based Results: Multiple clinical trials confirm sustained improvements in pain, function, and muscle flexibility.
💪 Clinical Tip: Combining dry needling with exercise, stretching, acupuncture, or physical therapy maximizes outcomes and reduces the likelihood of recurring muscle tightness.
Why Choose Dr. Jessie Gao at Metro Wellness NYC
Dr. Jessie Gao is a licensed acupuncturist with years of experience in treating musculoskeletal pain. Her expertise allows her to safely, precisely, and effectively target trigger points using dry needling, while integrating it with acupuncture, chiropractic care, and physical therapy.
Patients consistently report:
Immediate pain relief
Reduced muscle stiffness and tension
Improved daily function and quality of life
Faster recovery from injury or repetitive strain
Experience Evidence-Based Dry Needling Today
If you’re struggling with chronic muscle pain, tightness, or trigger points, schedule a session with Dr. Jessie Gao at Metro Wellness NYC. Our integrative, evidence-based approach combines dry needling with other therapeutic modalities to maximize results and restore function naturally.
📞 Call: 212-202-0065
📱 Text: 917-382-0980
📧 Email: info@metrowellnessnyc.com
📍 Address: 64 W 48th St, Suite 608, New York, NY 10036
