Add-on Therapy
Dry Needling
in Houston
Direct needling into stubborn muscle tension or tendinosis to help your body heal.
“Dry needling helps relax tight or irritated muscles using a very thin needle to target the spots that don’t want to let go. Dr. Bradshaw uses it when it fits your case, alongside adjustments, muscle work, and corrective exercise.”
What iT IS
A precise tool for muscles that won’t let go
Dry needling uses a very thin, sterile needle to reach trigger points deep in muscle tissue. This helps us get to places that don’t respond to stretching or massage alone.
It’s different from acupuncture. Dry needling is focused on muscles, movement, and the neuromuscular system. Most people feel a quick twitch or deep ache when the needle contacts a trigger point and then the muscle relaxes.
We use sterile, single-use needles and follow Clean Needle Technique and standard safety protocols. Needles are pre-packaged, used once, and disposed of immediately.
How we use it
Part of your care plan, not a standalone treatment
Dry needling is always paired with your chiropractic care here, so we don’t offer it by itself. Often your muscles need a little extra help releasing so the adjustment can hold and so your corrective exercises can do their job. We look at how muscles are working together, not just one tight spot. It’s typically added to your regular visit and takes only a few extra minutes depending on the area.
What it helps With
Stubborn tension that isn’t fully resolving
If you’ve been stretching, getting adjusted, and still hitting the same wall, dry needling may be the missing piece.
Neck & Shoulder Tension
Low Back Pain
Hip & Glute Tightness
Tennis Elbow
Headaches from Tight Traps
Chronic Muscle Knots
FAQ
What patients ask before trying it
Does it hurt?
Most people feel a quick twitch or a deep ache when the needle contacts a trigger point, and then the muscle relaxes. The needle is very thin — not like a shot. Most people say it’s easier than they expected. If you’re nervous, that’s completely fine — we can talk through it at your visit and decide together. No pressure.
Is it the same as acupuncture?
No. Dry needling is focused specifically on muscles, trigger points, and movement. The needle looks similar, but the approach and intent are different.
Do I have to decide before my appointment?
Not at all. Dr. Bradshaw, D.C. will evaluate your case and let you know if she thinks dry needling would help. You don’t have to commit ahead of time — we’ll figure it out together at your visit.
Can I come in just for dry needling?
We don’t offer dry needling as a standalone service. It’s always part of a full treatment visit so we can address the cause, not just the symptom. That’s what makes it actually work.
I tried it somewhere else and it was too intense.
That can happen — it often depends on how it’s applied and whether the bigger movement pattern is considered. Here, we look at the whole picture before needling any one area. Dr. Bradshaw, D.C. will only use it when it makes sense for your case.
Not sure if it’s right for you?
You don’t have to figure that out ahead of time. Book a visit and Dr. Bradshaw, D.C. will take a look and let you know if dry needling would be a good fit for your care.