💫 How Dry Needling Helped Me Find Relief
Note from Jamie
I like to share things that light me up, fill me with joy, and make my life easier. Nothing is sponsored. These are just things that are helping me along my journey.
💫 How Dry Needling Helped Me Find Relief
For months, my hip pain had been quietly building—until it finally reached the point where even just sitting was uncomfortable. By last Friday, I couldn’t ignore it any longer. I needed help.
I do all the “right” things for my body—daily stretching, yoga, core work, and strength training—but sometimes, despite all that, pain still finds its way in.
So, I did what I always do when my pain acts up: I called my chiropractor. She’s helped me through countless flare-ups over the years with adjustments, electro-stimulation, massage, and one treatment I’ve come to absolutely love—dry needling.
I recently read that dry needling can be just as effective as cortisone shots for pain and inflammation. I'm not sure why I didn't think to visit her sooner, but I scheduled an appointment, hoping for some relief. Within 48 hours, my hip pain was completely gone. Not “a little better.” Not “somewhat improved.” Gone.
It’s not the first time this technique has worked for me — I’ve had success using dry needling for my lower back, knee, and even my shoulders. Each time, the results have been remarkable.
So what exactly is dry needling?
Dry needling involves the use of very thin needles (similar to acupuncture needles) that are inserted into tight or painful areas of muscle known as trigger points. The goal is to release muscle tension and improve blood flow, which can dramatically reduce pain and restore mobility.
While both dry needling and acupuncture use needles, they’re quite different in philosophy and practice. Dry needling is rooted in modern Western medicine and focuses on treating specific muscle pain or injuries. Acupuncture, on the other hand, is based on traditional Chinese medicine and seeks to balance the body’s energy flow (or “qi”) to improve overall wellness.
Here’s a simple way to think about it:
- Dry Needling = Targets knots, pain, and tight muscles (great for injuries and chronic tension)
- Acupuncture = Balances the body’s energy (great for stress, holistic healing, and internal conditions)
When I asked my chiropractor what people should know about dry needling, she said most folks don’t even know it exists — or how effective it can be. She also mentioned that everyone responds differently. Some people feel an immediate difference, others notice gradual improvement, and a few may not feel much at all. But in her experience, people dealing with chronic pain tend to benefit most.
It’s important to note that dry needling should only be performed by a trained professional — such as a chiropractor, physical therapist, or physician — who’s certified in the technique.
Personally, I’m just so grateful for this natural way to manage my pain and keep moving freely.
If you’re curious about trying it and would like my chiropractor’s information, I’d be happy to share it — just reach out.
Here’s to living free from pain and finding what works best for you.
xoxo,
Jamie
Inspiration
Nourish Pick of the Week
I love playing beauty shop with you at events — you look so good in so many colors!
These 100% natural lipsticks have been flying off our tables because they are incredibly moisturizing and deliver buildable color that flatters everyone.
I’m currently rotating through six shades (because why pick just one?).
Need help picking a color? Our best-seller is Rose Lime — a dreamy, wearable neutral you’ll reach for every day.
Recipe of the Week
This week’s recipe comes from my teammate Beth, who shared, “I found this recipe on Instagram from one of my favorite recipe accounts. My family loves it! It’s truly delightful."
Made with crisp apples, a hint of cinnamon, and just the right touch of sweetness, this cozy homemade applesauce tastes delicious.
Serve it warm, swirl it into oatmeal, or enjoy it straight from the spoon — it’s pure comfort.
Live well. Be kind.
Jamie
