Dry Needle Therapy Ottawa: What It Is

People searching for Dry Needle Therapy Ottawa are often looking for a clear explanation of what this treatment involves. Dry needle therapy is a clinical technique used by regulated healthcare professionals to address muscle-related dysfunction as part of musculoskeletal care.

Dry needle therapy does not involve medication or injected substances. The term “dry” refers to the fact that the needle itself is solid and does not deliver any fluid.

How Dry Needle Therapy Works

Dry needle therapy involves the use of thin, sterile, single-use needles that are inserted into specific areas of muscle tissue. These areas are commonly identified during physical assessment as regions of increased muscle tension or altered muscle function.

The needles are placed directly into muscle tissue rather than into joints or along nerve pathways. Treatment is delivered externally and does not involve surgical procedures.

What Is Treated With Dry Needle Therapy

Dry needle therapy is directed at muscle tissue and is commonly applied to muscles in areas such as:

• The neck and shoulders

• The upper and lower back

• The hips and pelvic region

• The arms and legs

The specific muscles treated are selected based on assessment findings and individual presentation.

How Dry Needle Therapy Differs From Injections

Dry needle therapy uses solid, filiform needles and does not involve medication, corticosteroids, or anesthetics. It is different from injection-based procedures and is not considered a pharmaceutical treatment.

How Dry Needle Therapy Is Used in Clinical Practice

In clinical settings, dry needle therapy is typically used as one component of a broader care plan. It is applied based on clinical judgment, individual tolerance, and assessment findings.

Because dry needle therapy addresses muscle tissue, it is often combined with other approaches that focus on joint movement and overall physical function.

Final thoughts

Understanding what Dry Needle Therapy Ottawa involves can help clarify whether this technique may be discussed as part of a care plan. For more information on how dry needle therapy is used in treatment, you can visit our Dry Needling in Ottawa page.