Dry needling in Arlington, Virginia
Dry Needling
Reduce Pain. Improve Movement. Recover Faster.
Dry needling is a treatment used to relieve muscle tension, improve mobility, reduce pain, and support the body’s natural healing process. Using thin, sterile needles, specific muscles and soft tissues are targeted to address trigger points, tightness, and movement restrictions that may be contributing to discomfort or dysfunction.
Dr. Lindsay often combines dry needling with chiropractic care and soft tissue techniques to help patients move more comfortably, recover more efficiently, and get longer-lasting results.
Dr. Lindsay provides dry needling at ChiroGroup in Arlington, Virginia, serving patients from Northern Virginia and the DC area.
The treatment
What Is Dry Needling?
Dry needling uses the same thin, sterile needles used in acupuncture, but the technique and treatment goals are different. Dry needling focuses on treating muscle tension, trigger points, movement restrictions, and musculoskeletal pain.
By targeting areas of dysfunction within muscles and connective tissues, dry needling can help:
Many patients notice improved movement and reduced tension immediately after treatment.
- Reduce muscle tightness
- Improve blood flow
- Decrease pain and sensitivity
- Restore mobility and function
- Support injury recovery
- Improve muscle activation and movement patterns
Common reasons for care
When Is Dry Needling Helpful?
Neck & Shoulder Pain
- Tight upper traps
- Tension headaches
- Tech neck
- Shoulder pain
- Rotator cuff injuries
Back & Hip Pain
- Low back pain
- Gluteal pain
- Piriformis syndrome
- Hip tightness
- Sciatic-type symptoms
Sports & Exercise Injuries
- Muscle strains
- Overuse injuries
- Running injuries
- Tendon irritation
- Recovery from training or competition
Pregnancy-Related Discomfort
- Upper back tension
- Neck and shoulder pain
- Hip discomfort
- Glute tightness
- Muscle tension associated with postural changes during pregnancy
Postpartum Recovery
The physical demands of caring for a newborn often lead to tension in the neck, shoulders, upper back, low back, and hips. Dry needling can help address these areas of stress and support a more comfortable recovery.
Chronic Muscle Tightness
For muscles that continue to feel tight despite stretching, massage, or exercise, dry needling may help release tension and restore normal movement.
Individualized to you
Dry Needling During Pregnancy
Pregnancy places unique demands on the body, often creating increased tension through the hips, glutes, low back, upper back, and shoulders.
When clinically appropriate, dry needling can be used to help reduce muscle tension, improve mobility, and increase comfort throughout pregnancy. Treatment is always individualized based on your symptoms, stage of pregnancy, and overall presentation.
Your visit
What Should I Expect?
During treatment, thin sterile needles are placed into targeted muscles based on your examination findings and symptoms.
Patients may experience:
- A brief muscle twitch response
- Temporary muscle soreness
- Improved mobility
- Reduced pain and tension
- Increased ease of movement
Some soreness similar to a workout is normal and typically resolves within 24–48 hours.
Safety and screening
Is Dry Needling Safe?
Yes. Dry needling is considered a safe and effective treatment when performed by a properly trained provider.
Dr. Lindsay uses:
- Single-use sterile needles
- Thorough clinical screening and examination
- Evidence-informed treatment protocols
- Individualized treatment plans
Common side effects are generally mild and may include temporary soreness, bruising, or fatigue following treatment.
Common questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Dry Needling Hurt?
Most patients tolerate dry needling very well. You may feel a small pinch during needle insertion or a brief muscle twitch response, but treatments are generally comfortable and well tolerated.
How Many Treatments Will I Need?
The number of treatments varies depending on your condition, goals, and response to care. Some patients notice significant improvement after one visit, while others benefit from a series of treatments.
Can Dry Needling Be Combined With Chiropractic Care?
Absolutely. Dry needling and chiropractic care often complement one another well. Releasing muscle tension can improve movement and help support better joint function, while chiropractic adjustments address restrictions within the joints and nervous system.
Is Dry Needling Right For Me?
Dry needling may be a great option if muscle tension, pain, movement restrictions, or an injury are preventing you from feeling and functioning your best. During your visit, Dr. Lindsay will determine whether dry needling is appropriate for your specific condition and goals.
Care with Dr. Lindsay
Request an appointment with Dr. Lindsay
Contact ChiroGroup and ask to schedule specifically with Dr. Lindsay.