At Peak & Valley Chiropractic in Scottsdale, AZ, we offer Trigger Point Dry Needling (TPDN) as part of our evidence-based treatment options for musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. This minimally invasive technique uses thin, solid filiform needles inserted into specific trigger points within muscles to help release tension, reduce pain, and restore function.
When clinically appropriate, electrical stimulation (e-stim) can be applied through the needles to stimulate a greater physiological response, improve blood flow, and enhance muscle relaxation.
Dry needling is included in your care at no additional cost and will only be performed when your provider determines it is clinically indicated for your specific condition.
Why Chiropractors Are Qualified to Provide Dry Needling
Chiropractors are uniquely equipped to integrate dry needling into a broader, evidence-based treatment plan, combining it with joint mobilization, soft tissue therapy, and corrective exercise to address both the source of pain and contributing biomechanical factors.
Conditions Commonly Treated with Trigger Point Dry Needling
Evidence suggests dry needling may be helpful for:
• Myofascial trigger points
• Neck pain and tension headaches
• Shoulder impingement and rotator cuff pain
• Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) and golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis)
• Low back pain and sciatica symptoms
• Hip pain and piriformis syndrome
• Quadriceps and hamstring strains
• Calf tightness and Achilles tendinopathy
• Postural muscle tension from prolonged sitting or repetitive work
• Jaw pain (TMJ-related muscle tension)
How Electrical Stimulation Enhances Dry Needling
For some patients, electrical stimulation (e-stim) is used in conjunction with dry needling to:
• Increase local circulation
• Facilitate muscle contraction and relaxation
• Reduce pain perception via neuromodulation
• Encourage tissue healing in stubborn or chronic cases
This combination is particularly helpful for conditions involving long-standing muscle tightness or nerve-related irritation.
What to Expect During a Session
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Assessment: We identify trigger points through a thorough physical exam and history.
2
Needling: A thin, sterile needle is inserted into the trigger point, sometimes producing a local twitch response.
3
Optional E-Stim: If indicated, gentle electrical stimulation is applied to increase therapeutic effects.
4
Post-Treatment: You may feel mild soreness similar to a workout for 24–48 hours. This is a normal healing response.
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Integration: We combine dry needling with movement therapy, soft tissue work, or ergonomic advice to prevent recurrence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Choose Peak & Valley Chiropractic?
• Evidence-Based Care: All treatments, including dry needling, are selected based on current research and clinical best practices.
• Integrated Approach: Dry needling is used alongside joint care, soft tissue therapy, and corrective exercise for optimal results.
• Additional Cost: This therapy is included in your visit—never as an upsell.
• Customized Treatment: We only perform dry needling when it is clinically indicated for your unique condition.
• Advanced Training: Our providers have additional education in safe needling techniques and adjunctive use of e-stim.
• Patient-Centered: You’ll always understand what we’re doing, why we’re doing it, and how it benefits your recovery.
Other Services
" Lisa is the best! I have been seeing her to treat some chronic back and neck pain I deal with from working extensive hours at a desk and I always leave feeling refreshed.
She gives me tips to help manage the pain and stretch for in between sessions that are easy to do, while educating me on what causes the pain and how to relieve it. She’s always informative and never pushy. I always feel safe when she does the corrections! I was terrified of getting my neck cracked and I’m so glad I let her do it because it’s relieved so much pain and headaches I used to get. "
Justin V.