Understanding the Role of Dry Needling in Treating Chronic Pain

Healing Haven Physiotherapy • September 5, 2024

Dry Needling, also known as Intramuscular Manual Therapy (IMT), is a therapy technique for pain management and rehabilitation. It involves the insertion of thin filiform needles directly into the muscles' trigger points to stimulate a healing response that alleviates pain and improves function.


The Science Behind the Therapy


Purposed to target trigger points - hypersensitive spots within the muscle that can cause pain and other discomforts - the therapy works by eliciting local twitch responses. These responses are spinal cord reflexes that can help reduce muscle tension and deactivate trigger points. This, in turn, reduces pain, enhances movement and alleviates the various symptoms associated with trigger points.


How is it beneficial in treating chronic pain?


Chronic pain is typically associated with long-term musculoskeletal problems. By targeting trigger points, Dry Needling can rapidly reset the muscle to its normal functioning state, significantly reducing pain and enhancing muscle activity. Furthermore, by building up an inflammatory response, it promotes local healing and restores normal tissue structure.


What conditions can be treated?


Dry Needling is effective in treating various conditions that result in chronic pain. These can be musculoskeletal problems including but not limited to chronic back pain, neck pain, tension-type headaches, TMJ dysfunctions, carpal tunnel syndrome, and fibromyalgia.


Who can benefit?


From athletes experiencing muscular pain and tension due to strenuous activities, to office workers suffering from computer-related injuries and back pain, Dry Needling can prove to be a beneficial treatment. It can also serve as an effective adjunct therapy for those undergoing physiotherapy for rehabilitation.


What to expect during a Dry Needling treatment?


A typical Dry Needling treatment session at our clinic, Healing Haven Physiotherapy, begins with a comprehensive evaluation of your condition. Following this, our certified therapists will use sterilized, single-use fine needles to puncture the skin and stimulate the underlying myofascial trigger points.


Although the needling process may cause minor discomfort, most patients report experiencing relief and relaxation after the session. The treatment's duration varies depending on the individual's condition, but typically lasts between 30 to 60 minutes.


Embrace the Relief with Healing Haven Physiotherapy


At Healing Haven Physiotherapy, we are dedicated to providing innovative therapies that help our patients get back to doing what they love. If you suffer from chronic pain, Dry Needling could be a solution worth exploring. Our experienced and certified therapists will work with you to develop an integrated treatment plan tailored to your needs.


If you'd like to learn more about how Dry Needling can benefit you, we invite you to visit our website or contact us directly at Healing Haven Physiotherapy in Edmonton. Our team is ready to guide you on your journey towards recovery.


Don't let chronic pain control your life. Contact Healing Haven Physiotherapy today and discover the difference Dry Needling can make in your treatment and rehabilitation process.

Person driving a car while holding their neck, with a hand on the steering wheel.
By Healing Haven Physiotherapy August 5, 2026
Even minor collisions can trigger pain weeks later. See why Healing Haven Physiotherapy urges prompt assessment for hidden injuries.
Physical therapist stretching a man’s leg on a mat in a clinic room
By Healing Haven Physiotherapy July 29, 2026
Wondering if you can exercise with whiplash? Learn which movements to avoid early, when activity helps, and how physiotherapy guides safe progress forward.
Man sitting in a car with hands on his face, looking stressed or overwhelmed while driving
By Healing Haven Physiotherapy July 21, 2026
Jaw pain after a crash may be linked to TMJ dysfunction, muscle tension or whiplash. Learn how Edmonton TMJ therapy can improve comfort and movement well.
Person holding their head in distress while sitting indoors on a couch
By Healing Haven Physiotherapy July 15, 2026
Summer concussions from sports can affect balance, focus and energy. Find out when dizziness should be assessed by a physiotherapist for safe recovery.
Woman in orange sweater holding her neck in a car, with a concerned passenger behind her.
By Healing Haven Physiotherapy July 7, 2026
Planning a Canada Day road trip after whiplash? Learn how to return to driving safely, manage neck pain and make travel more comfortable this summer.
Physical therapist assisting a patient stretching on a treatment table in a bright clinic room
By Healing Haven Physiotherapy June 23, 2026
Numbness or tingling after a car accident may point to nerve irritation. Learn what these symptoms can mean and when to seek physiotherapy for proper care.
Physical therapist stretching a patient’s legs on a treatment table in a clinic room
By Healing Haven Physiotherapy June 17, 2026
Not sure whether massage therapy or physiotherapy is better for whiplash? Compare benefits, timing and how both may support recovery after a crash injury.
Man in red cap holding his shoulder, with a bright light on his upper back near a car trunk
By Healing Haven Physiotherapy June 9, 2026
Shoulder pain after a crash can show up during DIY projects or lifting. Learn common causes, from strain to whiplash, and when physio helps for recovery.
Driver rubbing her forehead while steering a car, appearing tired or stressed
By Healing Haven Physiotherapy June 3, 2026
Headaches after a collision may be linked to whiplash, not just stress. Learn when MVA symptoms need physiotherapy assessment and care to recover well.
Man in blue shirt holding his neck and chest, grimacing in pain against a white background
By Healing Haven Physiotherapy May 26, 2026
Planning spring yardwork after a car accident? Discover how to protect your neck and back while gardening and avoid painful setbacks during recovery.