Dry Needling and Massage are a wonderful pairing for pain relief. They each act upon the body in unique ways to relieve tension, induce relaxation, and promote healing. When the two modalities are coupled, their benefits are enhanced! Let’s begin with an overview of dry needling.
Dry Needling for Pain Relief
Dry Needling is a common treatment for individuals with muscle or tendon pain. During treatment, thin needles are used to address knots (or adhesions) within the tissue. Often, needles are stimulated via an electronic device or quick, repeated insertions to facilitate the release of the triggered point.
This treatment helps to relieve tension in the muscle, improve blood flow to the affected area and reduce pain. Most recipients report immediate relief after a session but depending on the issue, multiple treatments may be necessary.
Dry Needling is especially effective for pain and limited range of motion caused by injury, overuse or improper movement patterns. Common issues/ailments that can be addressed and resolved with dry needling include:
- arthritis pain
- shoulder pain
- rotator cuff pain
- biceps tendinitis
- Achilles tendinitis
- low back pain
- tennis elbow
- whiplash or neck pain
- headaches
- muscle strains
- TMJ
Dry Needling and Massage for Pain Relief

Dr. Allie Greene
So what are the benefits of combining massage with dry needling? Dry needling is a very focused treatment whereas massage will impact the entire body, facilitating muscle relaxation all over. Since we know how interconnected the body is, relieving tension in the areas surrounding the impaired muscle(s) helps extend the healing and improve the body’s ability to recover. All of the benefits derived from dry needling are further enhanced by adding massage to the menu.
Dr. Greene, our acupuncturist/chiropractor, always suggests being seen for dry needling first to ascertain what is best for each individual as body needs/issues, of course, vary from person to person. Once your protocol is established, her general recommendation is to get a massage first and then dry needling afterwards. In her almost two decade long career, she has found this is the most effective way to treat inflammation in the body which is prevalent in most people’s physical constitution.
Experience Dry Needling and Massage in Glendale, CO
The Wellness Center is the perfect place to go if you want to receive the benefits of both dry needling and massage! We offer both modalities and our practitioners work in tandem to ensure your treatment protocol is tailored to meet your unique needs. Learn more about our skilled and experienced team of massage therapists here. If you’re ready to schedule, book an appointment here or give us a call.