WEST TOWN & ROSCOE VILLAGE · CHICAGO, IL
Targeted relief for muscle pain, tension, and movement restrictions.
Dry Needling in Chicago, IL
Dry needling is a highly effective technique used by our physical therapists to release tight muscle bands (trigger points), reduce pain, and restore normal movement. It uses thin monofilament needles — similar to acupuncture needles — inserted directly into muscle tissue to produce an involuntary twitch response that releases tension and improves function.
Unlike acupuncture, dry needling is rooted in modern Western medicine and musculoskeletal science. At West Town PT, dry needling is offered as a cash-pay add-on integrated into your regular PT session — never as a standalone treatment. Your therapist will assess whether you would benefit from it and incorporate it as one tool within your individualized plan.
IS THIS RIGHT FOR ME?
✔ Chronic neck, back, or shoulder tension
✔ Muscle knots that won’t release with manual therapy alone
✔ Headaches related to muscle tension
✔ Hip, glute, or IT band tightness
✔ Post-injury muscle guarding
✔ Limited range of motion
✔ Sports or overuse injuries
HOW DRY NEEDLING WORKS
- A thin needle is inserted into a specific trigger point within a muscle
- A local twitch response releases the tight band and increases blood flow
- Combined with manual therapy, exercise, and movement retraining
- Sessions typically 30–60 minutes; dry needling is one component
- Number of sessions varies based on condition and response
Both Locations
1023 N Ashland Ave (West Town) · 1900 W Belmont Ave (Roscoe Village)
Chicago, IL
📞 773-729-2551
✉ info@westtownpt.com
Street parking available · CTA accessible
Same-week appointments available
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Does dry needling hurt?
You may feel a brief twitch sensation or mild ache during the needle insertion — this is the trigger point releasing and is generally a sign it is working. Most patients find it very tolerable and feel significant relief afterward.
Is dry needling the same as acupuncture?
They use similar needles but are based on different principles. Dry needling is grounded in Western musculoskeletal medicine and targets specific muscle trigger points. Acupuncture is based on traditional Chinese medicine and meridian theory.
Do I need a referral?
No referral is needed to begin physical therapy at West Town PT. Dry needling is something your therapist will introduce as part of your care if appropriate — you don’t need to request it specifically. Just book a regular PT appointment and discuss your goals at your first visit.
Will insurance cover dry needling?
Dry needling is a cash-pay add-on service and is not billed through insurance. The fee is added to your regular PT session. Your therapist will only recommend it if they believe it will meaningfully benefit your treatment.
How many sessions will I need?
Because dry needling is integrated into your PT session rather than a standalone visit, the number of times it is used depends on your response and your therapist’s clinical judgment. Some patients benefit from it occasionally; others find it helpful as a regular part of their plan. Your therapist will guide you.
Ready to release what’s holding you back?
Same-week appointments available. West Town & Roscoe Village, Chicago.