Athletes push their bodies to the limit, and while that drive fuels performance, it also leaves muscles vulnerable to tightness, overuse, and injury. When shoulder and elbow pain sets in—especially for athletes who depend on repetitive throwing motions—it can disrupt training, competition, and long-term performance. That’s where dry needling therapy comes in. Backed by science and trusted by athletes, this technique offers a precise way to release tension, restore mobility, and support faster recovery so athletes can stay strong and resilient.
What is Dry Needling Therapy?
Dry needling therapy is a targeted treatment designed to release taut bands of tension within muscles. By calming overactive trigger points, it can reduce pain, improve mobility, and in many cases, eliminate muscle tightness altogether. For athletes—especially those who rely on repetitive throwing motions—this treatment can be a powerful tool in recovering from shoulder and elbow injuries. When paired with a comprehensive physical therapy program that addresses the underlying cause, results are even more effective and long-lasting.
How Does It Work?
During dry needling therapy, a licensed Doctor of Physical Therapy carefully inserts a thin, sterile monofilament needle into specific trigger points within the muscle. This process helps release shortened bands of muscle fibers, decreases trigger point activity, and restores normal muscle function. The treatment not only alleviates pain and tightness but also promotes circulation, supports tissue healing, and accelerates recovery.
Because of these benefits, this treatment has become especially popular among athletes. Throwing athletes, in particular, often turn to this therapy to reduce strain on the shoulder and elbow, enhance recovery, and get back to peak performance more quickly.
How Does It Help Athletes?
For athletes, dry needling therapy offers an effective way to keep muscles performing at their best. By targeting trigger points and tight muscle bands, this therapy relieves tension, reduces pain, and restores flexibility—allowing for smoother, more efficient movement during training and competition. It also supports faster recovery by improving circulation and reducing post-workout inflammation, helping athletes return to peak performance more quickly. Beyond recovery, dry needling can enhance range of motion and address muscle imbalances that often lead to overuse injuries. With regular treatment, athletes can not only recover faster but also reduce their risk of strains, tendinitis, and other common setbacks.
Our Treatment Approach
At BYoung Physical Therapy, dry needling therapy is often an important part of recovery for athletes dealing with shoulder and elbow injuries—particularly those caused by throwing. Because no two athletes are alike, our treatment plans are always individualized, combining dry needling with other evidence-based therapy methods to address both symptoms and underlying movement issues. For baseball players and other throwing athletes, this integrated approach can be especially effective in promoting healing, restoring function, and supporting a safe return to sport.
Getting Back to Your Best
Whether you’re working through an injury, aiming to recover more quickly, or looking to prevent future setbacks, dry needling therapy can play a key role in keeping you at the top of your game. At BYoung Physical Therapy, we combine this powerful treatment with comprehensive care tailored to your sport, your goals, and your body’s unique needs. The result is a smarter, more effective path back to pain-free movement and peak performance. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how dry needling therapy can support your recovery and performance.