Not acupuncture.
A different science entirely.
Dry needling uses thin, sterile monofilament needles — the same type used in acupuncture — but the approach, training, and clinical rationale are completely different. Dry needling is grounded in Western anatomical and neurophysiological science. It targets myofascial trigger points: hypersensitive knots within muscle that cause local pain and refer pain to other areas.
When the needle contacts a trigger point, it causes a brief involuntary twitch response — the muscle fires and then relaxes. This mechanical disruption, combined with the neurological response it triggers, reduces muscle tension, restores blood flow to the area, and interrupts the pain-spasm-pain cycle that perpetuates many chronic pain conditions.
At Cowboy Healthcare, dry needling is always performed by licensed DPTs with advanced certification in trigger point needling — never delegated to unlicensed assistants. It is typically used as one component of a comprehensive PT session, combined with manual therapy and therapeutic exercise.
