Dry needling is a treatment performed by a trained healthcare provider that uses very thin, sterile needles to treat painful muscles, trigger points (muscle knots), and movement dysfunction. The goal is to reduce pain, improve mobility, and help muscles function normally.
Dry Needling at SHAW
The Student Health and Wellness Center now offers dry needling services for UWM students. Students who are eligible for SHAW services can schedule an appointment. No referral is required, and students can schedule by calling 414-229-SHAW (7429). Your provider will determine whether dry needling is appropriate for your condition.
The initial visit for dry needling at SHAW is $25. Follow up visits cost $10.
FAQs
Most people tolerate dry needling very well. You may feel:
- A brief pinch when the needle is inserted
- A muscle twitch (which is often a good sign that the trigger point has been reached)
- Mild soreness afterward, similar to what you might feel after a workout
Dry needling may help with:
- Neck pain
- Back pain
- Shoulder pain
- Hip pain
- Knee pain
- Muscle strains
- Sports injuries
- Headaches caused by muscle tension
- Muscle tightness
- Overuse injuries
- Limited flexibility
- Chronic muscle pain
- Muscle spasms
- Tendon pain
- Jaw (TMJ) muscle pain
The needle stimulates tight or irritated muscles and trigger points. This can:
- Reduce muscle tension
- Improve blood flow
- Decrease pain
- Improve range of motion
- Help muscles heal more efficiently
No.
Although both treatments use thin needles, they are based on different principles.
Dry Needling
- Based on modern anatomy and medical research
- Targets muscles and trigger points
- Used to treat pain and movement problems
Acupuncture
- Based on Traditional Chinese Medicine
- Focuses on balancing energy pathways (meridians)
- Used for a variety of medical and wellness conditions
Most appointments last 20–30 minutes, depending on the condition being treated.
This varies depending on:
- Your injury
- How long you’ve had symptoms
- Your activity level
- How your body responds
Many students notice improvement after 1–3 treatments, while chronic conditions may require additional visits.
You may experience:
- Immediate pain relief
- Improved movement
- Mild muscle soreness for 24–48 hours
- A feeling similar to having exercised the treated muscles
Drinking water and staying gently active often helps reduce soreness.
Common side effects include:
- Temporary muscle soreness
- Mild bruising
- Small amount of bleeding at the needle site
- Fatigue for the remainder of the day
Serious complications are very rare when dry needling is performed by a trained healthcare provider.
Dry needling may not be appropriate if you:
- Have certain bleeding disorders
- Take blood-thinning medications
- Have an active skin infection over the treatment area
- Have significant needle anxiety
- Are unable to provide informed consent
Your provider will review your medical history before treatment.
Yes.
Dry needling is considered very safe when performed by a licensed healthcare provider who has received specialized training and follows sterile technique.
Wear comfortable clothing that allows access to the painful area.
Examples:
- Shorts for hip or knee pain
- Tank top for shoulder pain
- Athletic clothing is ideal
Light activity is encouraged.
If the treated muscles feel sore, consider avoiding intense exercise involving those muscles until the soreness improves (usually within 24 hours).
Yes.
Dry needling often works best when combined with:
- Stretching
- Strengthening exercises
- Home exercise programs
- Massage
- Physical therapy
- Ergonomic changes
- Good sleep and hydration