dry needling
DRY NEEDLING IN CHAMBLEE
Dry needling uses a thin, sterile needle to release tight, painful spots in a muscle. At ADAPT, a Doctor of Physical Therapy pairs it with hands-on care and exercise, so the relief lasts.
WHAT DRY NEEDLING CAN HELP WITH
Tight, knotted muscles and trigger points
Neck and upper back pain, including tension that leads to headaches
Shoulder pain
Hamstring, calf and hip tightness in athletes and runners
Research suggests dry needling can ease pain in the short term. That's why we always pair it with exercise that keeps the problem from coming back.
WHAT A SESSION IS LIKE
Your physical therapist evaluates you and decides whether dry needling fits your plan.
They clean the skin and place thin, single-use needles into specific spots in the muscle. You may feel a quick twitch or a dull ache.
The needles stay in for a few seconds to a few minutes.
You finish with movement and exercise to lock in the change.
Soreness for a day or two afterward is common. Staying active helps it pass.
IS DRY NEEDLING SAFE?
It's low risk when a trained clinician does it. The most common side effects are soreness and small bruises, and serious problems are rare. Tell your therapist if you're pregnant, take blood thinners or feel anxious about needles.
DRY NEEDLING VS. ACUPUNCTURE
Both use the same kind of thin needle. Dry needling is based on anatomy and how muscles work, not traditional Chinese medicine, and our therapists use it as one tool inside physical therapy.
TRAINING AND GEORGIA RULES
Georgia requires physical therapists to complete at least 50 hours of dry needling training, plus bloodborne pathogen training, before they can dry needle. If you start physical therapy without a referral, Georgia also requires your therapist to consult your physician before dry needling.
COST
Dry needling and cupping are self-pay services, not billed to insurance. You can add them before or after a physical therapy visit or book them on their own, and package options are available. Call (404) 400-6242 for pricing.
DRY NEEDLING FAQ
DOES IT HURT?
Most people feel a quick prick, then a twitch or deep ache in the muscle that fades fast.
HOW MANY SESSIONS WILL I NEED?
It depends on what we're treating. Your therapist will suggest a plan after your evaluation.
DO YOU OFFER CUPPING TOO?
Yes. Cupping is often used in the same session. See our recovery services.
TRY DRY NEEDLING AT ADAPT
Book an evaluation and we'll see if dry needling is right for you.