Manual Therapy and Dry Needling
At Virginia Concussion and Pain Physical Therapy, we use a hands-on, evidence-informed approach to help reduce pain, restore movement, and improve overall function—especially in patients with persistent or complex pain involving the neck, jaw, head, and spine. Manual therapy and dry needling are two powerful tools we integrate into individualized treatment plans to address both the symptoms and underlying contributors to your discomfort.
What Is Manual Therapy?
Manual therapy involves skilled, hands-on techniques applied to joints, muscles, and connective tissues. It’s used to improve mobility, reduce stiffness, and relieve pain.
Depending on your condition, your treatment may include:
- Soft tissue mobilization to reduce tension or restrictions in muscle and fascia
- Joint mobilization or manipulation to restore movement and reduce pain
- Myofascial release to address chronic tightness or trigger points
- Manual stretching or guided movement for improved flexibility and control
What Is Dry Needling?
Dry needling is a technique that uses very thin, sterile needles to target trigger points-tight bands of muscle that can cause pain or restrict movement. When placed into the muscle, these needles can help release tension, improve blood flow, and reset the nervous system’s response to pain.
Dry needling may help:
- Decrease muscle pain and tightness
- Improve range of motion
- Reduce headaches and referred pain
- Calm overactive muscle groups contributing to dysfunction
This technique is often used alongside other treatments like movement retraining, postural correction, and neuromuscular re-education for the most lasting benefit.
Why We Use These Techniques
Chronic pain is rarely just about one muscle or joint - it often involves patterns of movement, compensation, and sensitivity that build over time. Our approach combines manual therapy and dry needling with education, movement retraining, and patient-specific exercises to create long-term change.
Who Can Benefit?
Manual therapy and/or dry needling may be appropriate for patients with:
- Persistent neck or jaw pain
- Tension or cervicogenic headaches
- Post-concussion musculoskeletal symptoms
- Chronic upper back or shoulder tension
- Limited mobility due to pain or stiffness
Enhance Recovery with Expert Manual Therapy
Experience tailored care with advanced manual therapy and dry needling solutions for effective pain management in Richmond.