Quick Answer

Dry needling uses thin monofilament needles to release myofascial trigger points — tight knots in muscles that cause pain, stiffness, and referred symptoms. It’s highly effective for back pain, neck pain, headaches, shoulder pain, and sciatica. Research shows dry needling produces immediate improvements in pain and range of motion. Dr. Emily Warren performs dry needling at Mindful Movement Physical Therapies in Salt Lake City.

Dry needling is a physical therapy technique that uses thin needles to release trigger points in tight muscles, reducing pain and restoring movement. Unlike acupuncture, dry needling targets specific musculoskeletal trigger points based on anatomy. Sessions cost $100-200 at Mindful Movement Physical Therapy in Salt Lake City.



Dry Needling in Salt Lake City, Utah

Dry needling at Mindful Movement Physical Therapy in Holladay, Utah is performed by Dr. Emily Warren, DPT as part of comprehensive physical therapy treatment. This evidence-based technique uses thin needles to release myofascial trigger points, reducing pain and restoring movement. Sessions include dry needling combined with exercise prescription and manual therapy. Located at 4890 Highland Dr, Holladay, UT 84117.

Looking for dry needling in Salt Lake City? At Mindful Movement Physical Therapies, Emily Warren, DPT, provides expert dry needling treatment as part of comprehensive physical therapy care. Our clinic is conveniently located at 4890 Highland Dr, Holladay, UT 84117, serving patients from Holladay, Cottonwood Heights, Millcreek, Murray, Sugarhouse, and Sandy.

What Is Dry Needling?

Dry needling is an evidence-based treatment technique where a trained physical therapist inserts thin, sterile monofilament needles into myofascial trigger points—hyperirritable spots within tight bands of muscle tissue. These trigger points cause localized pain, referred pain, muscle weakness, and restricted range of motion.

The term “dry” refers to the fact that no medication or injection is used—the needle itself is the therapeutic tool. When inserted into a trigger point, the needle creates a local twitch response that helps reset the muscle, improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and promote healing. For a detailed comparison with traditional acupuncture, visit our page on dry needling vs acupuncture.

Conditions Treated with Dry Needling

Emily Warren, DPT, uses dry needling to treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions. At our Salt Lake City clinic, the most common conditions we treat with dry needling include:

Neck and Head Pain

• Chronic and acute neck pain
• Migraines and tension headaches
• Cervicogenic headaches
• Whiplash-related neck pain
• TMJ/jaw pain

Shoulder and Upper Extremity Pain

• Rotator cuff pain and impingement
• Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)
• Tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow
• Carpal tunnel-related muscle tightness

Back Pain

• Chronic and acute back pain
• Sciatica and radiating leg pain
• Herniated disc-related muscle spasm
• SI joint dysfunction
• Muscle spasm and guarding

Lower Extremity Pain

• Hip pain and IT band syndrome
• Knee pain and patellofemoral syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis
• Achilles tendinopathy
• Shin splints
• Calf cramps and tightness

Other Conditions

• Fibromyalgia-related trigger points
• Post-surgical muscle tightness and pain
• Athletic performance enhancement

How Dry Needling Works: The Science

Research has identified several mechanisms through which dry needling produces therapeutic effects:

Mechanical Effects

The needle physically disrupts the dysfunctional motor endplate at the trigger point, interrupting the cycle of abnormal muscle contraction. The local twitch response you feel during treatment is evidence of this disruption—the muscle briefly contracts, then relaxes to a more normal resting length.

Neurological Effects

Dry needling stimulates A-delta nerve fibers, which activate descending inhibitory pathways in the spinal cord. This mechanism, known as segmental inhibition, reduces pain signaling from the treated area. The needle also stimulates the release of endorphins and enkephalins—your body’s natural pain-relieving chemicals.

Chemical Effects

Studies have shown that trigger points contain elevated levels of inflammatory chemicals including substance P, CGRP, and bradykinin. Research by Dr. Jay Shah at the National Institutes of Health demonstrated that dry needling reduces the concentration of these chemicals at the trigger point, normalizing the local chemical environment.

Circulatory Effects

Trigger points are associated with localized ischemia—restricted blood flow. Dry needling improves blood flow to the area, delivering oxygen and nutrients while removing metabolic waste products that contribute to pain and dysfunction.

What Makes Our Approach to Dry Needling Different

At Mindful Movement Physical Therapies, dry needling is never a standalone treatment. Emily Warren, DPT, integrates dry needling within a comprehensive physical therapy program that addresses the root cause of your pain—not just the symptoms.

Thorough Evaluation First

Before any needles are used, Emily performs a detailed evaluation including movement assessment, postural analysis, and mechanical diagnosis. As a certified McKenzie Method (MDT) practitioner, she identifies the directional preference and mechanical cause of your pain, ensuring treatment targets the actual problem.

Integrated Treatment Plan

Your treatment plan may include:

• Dry needling — To release trigger points and reduce pain
• Manual therapy — Joint mobilization and soft tissue work
• McKenzie Method — Self-treatment exercises based on your directional preference
• Therapeutic exercise — Progressive strengthening and stabilization
• Patient education — Posture, ergonomics, and activity modification

One-on-One Care

Every session at Mindful Movement Physical Therapies is one-on-one with Emily Warren, DPT. You won’t be handed off to an aide or assistant. This ensures the highest quality care and treatment consistency from session to session.

Your First Dry Needling Visit

Here’s what to expect when you come to Mindful Movement Physical Therapies for dry needling:

1. Comprehensive evaluation — Emily will assess your movement, posture, strength, and identify specific trigger points contributing to your pain
2. Discussion of findings — You’ll understand exactly what’s causing your pain and how dry needling fits into your treatment plan
3. Informed consent — Emily will explain the procedure, benefits, and any risks before proceeding
4. Treatment — Thin, sterile needles are inserted into identified trigger points; you may feel a twitch response
5. Follow-up exercises — You’ll receive specific exercises to maximize your results between sessions

After Your Session

Mild soreness in the treated area is normal for 24-48 hours. Applying heat and staying hydrated can help. Many patients experience immediate improvement in pain and range of motion, with continued improvement over the following days.

Dry Needling Training and Certification

Emily Warren, DPT, has completed extensive post-graduate training in dry needling techniques. In Utah, dry needling is within the scope of practice for licensed physical therapists who have completed appropriate training. Emily stays current with the latest research and techniques through continuing education.

Why Salt Lake City Residents Choose Mindful Movement Physical Therapies

• Expert care — Emily Warren, DPT, holds certifications in dry needling, the McKenzie Method (MDT), and specialized training in pelvic floor therapy and the Schroth Method for scoliosis
• Personalized treatment — Every patient receives individualized care; no cookie-cutter protocols
• Central location — 4890 Highland Dr, Holladay, UT 84117, easily accessible from Holladay, Millcreek, Cottonwood Heights, Murray, Sugarhouse, and Sandy
• Superbill provided — We provide a superbill for you to submit to your insurance for potential out-of-network reimbursement
• Results-driven — Our goal is to get you better as quickly as possible and give you the tools to stay better

Related Dry Needling Pages

• Dry Needling Physical Therapy in Utah — Overview of our dry needling program
• Dry Needling for Shoulder Pain
• Dry Needling for Neck Pain
• Dry Needling for Migraines and Headaches
• Dry Needling vs Acupuncture

Other Services at Mindful Movement Physical Therapies

• Physical Therapy in Salt Lake City
• McKenzie Method Physical Therapy
• Back Pain Treatment
• Neck Pain Treatment
• Sciatica Treatment
• McKenzie Method Exercises for Back Pain
• Sciatica Stretches and Exercises
• Herniated Disc Exercises

What Do Patients Say About Dry Needling Treatment at Mindful Movement?

Real reviews from real patients:

“I was exhausted by chronic back and neck pain, doctors who only pushed medication and other PT’s who conditioned me to fear re-injury”

— Chronic pain patient

“Dr. Emily Warren is an exceptional physical therapist based in Salt Lake City, Utah. She quickly identified my back and leg issues within just a few appointments, leading to immediate improvements in my condition”

— Back/leg patient

“I’ve seen other physical therapists before, but Dr. Emily is on another level”

— Returning patient

Frequently Asked Questions About Dry Needling in Salt Lake City

Is dry needling legal in Utah?

Yes. Dry needling is within the scope of practice for licensed physical therapists in Utah who have completed appropriate post-graduate training. Emily Warren, DPT, is fully trained and certified in dry needling techniques.

How is dry needling different from acupuncture?

While both use thin needles, they are fundamentally different treatments. Dry needling is based on Western neuroscience and targets specific myofascial trigger points identified through physical examination. Acupuncture follows traditional Chinese medicine principles and targets meridian points to balance energy flow.

Does dry needling hurt?

The needle insertion is usually painless or feels like a mild pinch. When the needle reaches a trigger point, you’ll feel a brief twitch or cramping sensation. While this can be momentarily uncomfortable, most patients tolerate it well and report immediate relief afterward.

How quickly does dry needling work?

Many patients notice improvement after their first session. Typically, significant relief is achieved within 2-4 sessions. Chronic conditions may require additional treatment. Emily Warren, DPT, will discuss expected timelines during your evaluation.

Are there side effects of dry needling?

The most common side effect is temporary soreness at the treatment site for 24-48 hours. Minor bruising may occasionally occur. Serious side effects are extremely rare when performed by a trained professional.

Can dry needling help with chronic pain?

Yes. Dry needling is particularly effective for chronic myofascial pain conditions where trigger points have developed over months or years. By addressing these trigger points and combining treatment with corrective exercises, many chronic pain patients experience significant and lasting improvement.

How do I schedule a dry needling appointment?

Call Mindful Movement Physical Therapies at (801) 980-5076 to schedule your evaluation. Emily Warren, DPT, will assess your condition and determine if dry needling is appropriate for your needs.

Do you provide a superbill for insurance reimbursement?

Yes. We provide a superbill after each visit that you can submit to your insurance company for potential out-of-network reimbursement. Many patients receive partial or full reimbursement depending on their insurance plan.

If you are experiencing knee pain, learn about our specialized knee pain physical therapy program in Salt Lake City.

For persistent pain lasting more than 3 months, discover our evidence-based chronic pain physical therapy approach in Salt Lake City.

Dry Needling Resources: How Dry Needling Works: The Science | Dry Needling for Back Pain & Sciatica | Dry Needling for Neck Pain & Headaches | Dry Needling Cost Guide

Ready to get started? Call (385) 332-4939 or book online to schedule your evaluation.

Related Guides

• Dry Needling for Hip Pain
• Dry Needling for Neck Pain
• Dry Needling for Shoulder Pain
• Dry Needling for Migraines
• Dry Needling Cost Guide
• Tension Headache PT

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Related Conditions & Resources

• Back Pain Treatment
• Neck Pain Treatment
• Headache Physical Therapy
• Shoulder Pain Treatment
• Piriformis Syndrome