For muscle tension and pain that doesn't respond to adjustments alone, dry needling offers another way in.
Dr. George Perez is certified in dry needling and offers this treatment to patients throughout Pearland, Shadow Creek, Manvel, and the surrounding area as part of a broader, individualized approach to care.
What Dry Needling Is
Dry needling is a technique that uses thin, sterile needles inserted directly into tight, irritated muscle tissue, often at what's known as a trigger point. Unlike acupuncture, which is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, dry needling is based on modern musculoskeletal anatomy and is used specifically to release tension, reduce pain, and restore normal muscle function.
How It Helps
When a muscle stays chronically tight, it can restrict movement, refer pain to other areas of the body, and make it difficult for adjustments or other treatments to hold. Dry needling targets that tight band of muscle directly, helping it release in a way that manual therapy alone sometimes can't reach. Many patients feel a noticeable difference in mobility and tension within the same visit, although for chronic issues, results tend to build over a series of sessions.
Conditions Dry Needling Can Help With
Dry needling is frequently used alongside chiropractic care for chronic neck and upper trap tension, shoulder pain, low back pain, and stubborn muscle tightness related to sports activity or repetitive strain. It's often a good option for patients who've tried stretching, massage, or adjustments on their own without lasting relief.
Certification
Dr. George Perez is certified in Dynamic Neuromuscular Dry Needling through Texas Chiropractic College, completing 28 hours of training, including 3 hours in Clean Needle Technique and 25 hours in Dynamic Neuromuscular Dry Needling. He completed this certification in January 2024, meeting the training requirements to practice dry needling in Texas.
What to Expect
During your consult, Dr. George will determine whether dry needling is a good fit for your specific condition. If so, treatment is typically brief and is often paired with adjustments, spinal decompression, or therapeutic exercise as part of your broader care plan, rather than used as a standalone treatment.
Is dry needling the same as acupuncture?
No. Dry needling is based on modern musculoskeletal anatomy and targets specific muscle trigger points, while acupuncture is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine and focuses on energy flow through meridians. The tools look similar, but the approach and purpose are different.
Does dry needling hurt?
Most patients feel a brief twitch or mild cramping sensation as the needle reaches the trigger point, which is usually a sign the muscle is releasing. Any soreness afterward is typically mild and settles within a day or two.
How many sessions will I need?
It depends on your condition. Some patients notice a difference after a single session, while chronic or long-standing issues often respond better to a series of treatments. Dr. George will build a plan around what your exam shows and how you respond to treatment.
Is dry needling combined with other treatments?
Often, yes. Dry needling is frequently paired with chiropractic adjustments, spinal decompression, or therapeutic exercise as part of a broader plan rather than used on its own.
Who shouldn't get dry needling?
Dry needling isn't the right fit for everyone. Patients who are pregnant, have a needle phobia, or have certain bleeding or medical conditions may need a different approach. Dr. George reviews your history during your consult to make sure it's appropriate before treatment begins.