What is Functional Dry Needling (FDN)?

Functional Dry Needling (FDN) is a skilled intervention performed by a physical therapist that uses a thin filiform needle to penetrate the skin and stimulate underlying myofascial trigger points, muscular and connective tissues for the management of neuromuscular pain and movement impairments. (APTA, 2012).

Dry needling contrasts with “wet needling” as this is the use of a hollow hypodermic needle to inject substances such as saline solution, botox, or corticosteroids. Needles used for dry needling are typically much smaller and are referred to in terms of diameter and length rather than “gauge”. They are solid rather than hollow and have a rounded tip as opposed to the beveled, cutting tip of a hypodermic needle. Dry needling directs the needle at trigger points found along the bands in muscles throughout the body.

How Does Dry Needling Differ From Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is based on eastern medical diagnosis including tongue and pulse diagnosis. The practitioner inserts needles into specific points that lie along meridians (channels) of the body through which life force or “qi” flows. The overall goal is to restore normal flow of the life force.

The goal of Functional Dry Needling (FDN) is to increase range of motion, decrease pain, and restore function. It is just one “tool” in the practitioner’s tool box to treat patients. Dry needling would never be the sole treatment a patient would receive. Patient education, neuromuscular re-education, and improved motor control are essential to maximize return to function and prevent injury in the future.