Dry Needling

Dry needling is part of a comprehensive approach to aide in the modulation of pain, renewal of motion, and restoration of function.

What is Dry Needling?

Dry needling is part of a comprehensive approach to aide in the modulation of pain, renewal of motion, and restoration of function. The treatment is seldom stand-alone. Dry needling is performed by skilled, trained physical therapists. A thin monofilament needle(s) is utilized to penetrate the skin and treat underlying muscular trigger points, desensitize super-sensitive structures – inducing a healing response – and aide in restoration of function.

Conditions Commonly Treated

Dry needling is safe, minimally discomforting, and often effective for patients with certain musculoskeletal presentations. Common conditions appropriate for treatment could include:

  • Headaches
  • Neck pain
  • TMJ (temporal mandible joint) pain
  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Overuse injuries
  • Hip pain
  • Knee pain
  • Back pain

Who Can Benefit From Dry Needling?

Dry needling physical therapy can be appropriate for a wide subset of individuals. Dry needling may be used to treat patients with acute, subacute, and chronic pain and dysfunctions. When the muscle is stimulated with the needle, a twitch or rapid depolarization of the fibers may take place.

As a result, the muscle activity reduces dramatically, allowing it to relax while the pain and dysfunction decrease. Dry needling may also stimulate the release of the body’s endogenous opiates, initiating a new healing process.

What to Expect During a Session

During a dry needling session, your licensed physical therapist will gently insert thin, sterile needles into specific trigger points or tight muscles to help release tension, reduce pain, and improve movement. Most patients feel a brief muscle twitch or mild ache, followed by noticeable relief and improved flexibility. The treatment is quick, targeted, and often used alongside other therapy techniques as part of a personalized plan to speed up recovery.

Find a Clinic Near You

Why Choose Rock Valley Physical Therapy?

You deserve someone you can trust. We understand – life is busy. We make getting started easier than you might think. We accept nearly every insurance, and you can come in without a physician referral. Whether it’s lifting a grandchild, exercising, or just walking without pain, we are dedicated to getting you back to the life you want to live.

Experienced Therapists
Our team comprises licensed professionals with specialized training.

Convenient Locations

With over 60 clinics, we offer accessible care close to home.

No Referral Needed
Direct access to physical therapy services without a physician's referral.

Continuity of Care
Patients work with the same therapist throughout their treatment journey.

Real Stories. Real Results.

"The staff and clinicians are all very good. They answered all my questions, time spent with me was excellent and everyone showed great compassion."

"Everything is top notch! The expertise of the PTs and their caring attitude is exemplary. All the support staff are great!"

"I was very pleased with all of my care - pre op & post op. You did a wonderful job preparing me for surgery and getting me healed after."

"Excellent doesn't give the staff enough credit to how hard they work for their patient. All of the staff works very hard to give you extra help as each person needs."

Tips, Insights & Recovery Advice

Panel discussion at a brewery with four speakers seated on stools beside large stainless steel tanks

An iconic event: Rock Valley Physical Therapy excited to again be a sponsor of the TBK Bank Quad Cities Marathon’s five-person relay

By Kylie Williams • May 22, 2026
“Over the years I have had the opportunity to run races all across this country, and I can honestly say that the (TBK Bank) Quad Cities Marathon is one of the best; without a doubt,’’ continued Fleener, one of life’s truly good souls.  “And the reason is simple. It’s the people. The people in this room, the sponsors,
A person in a blue shirt measures the blood pressure of a person in a white shirt using an electronic monitor.

What is Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) Training?

May 21, 2026
Blood Flow Restriction training is a physical therapy technique that helps people build strength using light weights instead of heavy resistance.

Request an Appointment

Dry Needling Contact Form