Dry Needling for Low Back Pain (LBP)

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If you’ve ever dealt with the persistent ache of low back pain, you know how it can impact every aspect of your life. But what if relief could come from a surprisingly simple technique? Dry needling — a modern, science-based therapy — is changing the game for those seeking effective solutions to their pain.

Dry needling is a therapeutic technique used by specially trained physical therapists to target muscular pain and dysfunction. By inserting thin, filiform needles into trigger points — tight bands of muscle or tissue — this approach can help release tension, improve blood flow, and reduce pain. Unlike acupuncture, which is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, dry needling is based on modern Western medicine’s understanding of anatomy and neuromuscular systems. It is often incorporated into a broader physical therapy plan to address pain and functional limitations effectively.

Low back pain (LBP) is one of the most common musculoskeletal conditions in the United States, and dry needling has shown promising results in treating this condition. Research indicates that dry needling, when combined with other physical therapy treatments, can significantly reduce pain and improve function. One randomized controlled trial revealed that dry needling reduced stiffness in lumbar muscles, which in turn alleviated lower back pain more effectively than “sham needling” treatments.1 Another study found that pairing dry needling with a structured exercise program enhanced pain relief and improved functional outcomes for individuals with chronic low back pain.2

Patient Testimonials

Below are several firsthand accounts of how dry needling has helped patients manage their pain and reclaim their mobility.

I recently underwent dry needling for my back pain, and it was an incredible experience. The treatment directly addressed the tension and tightness in my muscles, providing noticeable relief almost immediately. After a few sessions, I felt a significant reduction in pain and improved mobility. The procedure was quick and surprisingly tolerable, with results that far exceeded my expectations. I would highly recommend dry needling to anyone dealing with chronic muscle pain or discomfort—it truly made a difference in my recovery.
Jessica A.
I had been struggling with low back pain for months, and after just two sessions of dry needling, the pain was gone.
Paula B.
When I first heard about dry needling from Dr. Lee, I was unsure if it was the right treatment for me. However, the pain, stiffness, and fatigue I was experiencing were so severe that I was desperate for relief. I’m thankful Dr. Lee suggested this treatment—it has truly been a game changer. Even though I was initially hesitant and concerned about discomfort, Dr. Lee’s thorough explanation of the process eased my concerns. Her professionalism and reassuring demeanor made me feel comfortable proceeding with the treatment. The procedure itself was surprisingly painless, and it was more than worth it. During the first session, Dr. Lee applied needles to my shoulder, mid-back, and lower back. To my surprise, the days following the treatment were the first time in a long while that I didn’t feel the symptoms I’d been struggling with. In a subsequent session, she added an electric current to the needles to stimulate blood flow and promote healing—the results were remarkable. Now, after several treatments, my pain has subsided significantly, and I’m well on the road to recovery. Dry needling has been fantastic, and I’m truly grateful for Dr. Lee’s skill and care. I look forward to a future without pain and highly recommend this therapy.
Robb R.
I felt like I had a sense of where my pain was specifically, and afterward, I felt more engaged using the muscle during exercises.
Elijah L.

Why dry needling works

Dry needling targets trigger points, areas of muscle tightness that can contribute to pain and dysfunction. By releasing these points, the treatment can help:

  • Reduce muscle tension
  • Improve range of motion
  • Increase blood flow to the affected area

For low back pain, these benefits can be particularly impactful when combined with exercises, manual therapy, and other physical therapy modalities tailored to your specific needs.

Is dry needling right for you?

It’s important to note that dry needling is not a standalone treatment but rather one component of a comprehensive physical therapy plan. Responses to dry needling are highly individualized, and while many patients experience significant relief, others may require additional or alternative therapies. If you’re interested in exploring dry needling as part of your recovery journey, consult your physical therapist to see if it’s appropriate for your condition.

References:

  1. Koppenhaver SL, Weaver AM, Randall TL, Hollins RJ, Young BA, Hebert JJ, Proulx L, Fernández-de-Las-Peñas C. Effect of dry needling on lumbar muscle stiffness in patients with low back pain: A double blind, randomized controlled trial using shear wave elastography. J Man Manip Ther. 2022 Jun;30(3):154-164. doi: 10.1080/10669817.2021.1977069. Epub 2021 Sep 16. PMID: 34525901; PMCID: PMC9255226.
  2. Rajfur, J., Rajfur, K., Kosowski, Ł. et al.The effectiveness of dry needling in patients with chronic low back pain: a prospective, randomized, single-blinded study. Sci Rep12, 15803 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-022-19980-1

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