“Does It Hurt?” Steady State’s Dry Needling FAQ

Dry needling is a powerful technique used by physical therapists to relieve pain and restore movement. At Steady State Health, we often receive a lot of questions about what to expect—especially from patients who are new to this form of therapy.

This page answers the most common questions people have about dry needling, from discomfort levels to recovery time. Whether you're just beginning to explore dry needling in Portland, Maine or are preparing for your first session, we've got you covered.

Does dry needling hurt?

This is one of the most common questions we hear. The short answer is: dry needling is typically not painful, but some people may experience a quick twitch or cramping sensation when the needle activates a trigger point.

Most patients describe the sensation as a dull ache or mild muscle soreness—similar to what you'd feel after a good workout. The goal isn’t to cause pain, but to release tension in the muscle and restore proper function.

If you're concerned about pain or sensitivity, your physical therapist will walk you through what to expect and adjust the treatment to your comfort level.

Is dry needling safe?

Yes. Dry needling is a safe, evidence-based technique when performed by a licensed and trained provider. At Steady State Health, our team has specialized training in dry needling and follows the highest safety standards.

We use sterile, single-use needles and apply strict hygiene protocols during every session.

How long does it take to see results? 

Many patients report feeling some improvement within 24 to 48 hours after a session, especially when dry needling is combined with manual therapy or targeted exercise rehabilitation.

The number of sessions needed depends on the condition being treated, how long the problem has been present, and how your body responds. Your therapist will build a customized treatment plan around your goals.

What is the recovery time after dry needling?

Recovery is typically quick. Mild soreness can last anywhere from a few hours to a day or two, especially if it's your first session. This is a normal part of the healing response.

We often recommend staying hydrated and gently moving the area to promote circulation. Most patients are able to resume normal activities—like work or exercise—the same day or the next.

For faster recovery and lasting results, we usually integrate dry needling with additional physical therapy services.

What’s the difference between dry needling and acupuncture?

While both use thin needles, dry needling is based on modern Western medicine and neuroanatomy, whereas acupuncture is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine.

Dry needling focuses on releasing myofascial trigger points—tight areas of muscle that can refer pain or restrict movement. It’s commonly used by physical therapists to treat musculoskeletal conditions.

Learn more about the differences between dry needling and acupunture here.

Is dry needling covered by insurance?

Some providers may take insurance, but at Steady State Health, we opt to provide cash-based services instead of the traditional route of going through the insurance system. Click here to learn more about our cash-based approach.

Still have questions?

Our team is happy to help. If you’re considering dry needling or want to know how it fits into your recovery plan, contact Steady State Health today to speak with one of our licensed physical therapists.