Dry Needling & Trigger Point Therapy in Santa Cruz

What Is Dry Needling?

Dry needling uses thin filiform needles (the same type used in acupuncture) to deactivate myofascial trigger points: hyper-irritable, contracted bands within muscle tissue. When a needle precisely contacts a trigger point, the muscle often responds with a brief twitch, then releases. The result is reduced pain, restored range of motion, and improved muscle function. "Dry" simply distinguishes it from injections — nothing is injected.

 

Dry Needling vs. Acupuncture — What's the Difference?

Dry needling targets specific dysfunctional muscle tissue based on orthopedic assessment; classical acupuncture works through point systems with broader regulatory effects on the nervous system. At this clinic you don't have to choose — Dr. Zack is trained in both and combines trigger point needling with acupuncture and electroacupuncture in a single integrated treatment. One important note for consumers: in California, dry needling performed by a licensed acupuncturist reflects thousands of hours of needling-specific training and full scope of practice.

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Conditions That Respond to Trigger Point Therapy

• Neck and shoulder tension, including tech/desk-related pain

• Tension headaches with muscular origin

• Low back pain and gluteal/piriformis pain

• Tennis elbow, golfer's elbow, and other tendinopathies

• Jaw pain and TMJ-related muscle tension

• Sports injuries and recurring muscle strains