Dry Needling

Target muscle tension, reduce pain,
and restore healthy movement.

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What is Dry Needling?

Dry needling is a highly effective technique for releasing tight muscles, reducing pain, and improving mobility. Using thin, sterile needles, we target areas of irritation or dysfunction within the muscle to stimulate improved blood flow, reduce inflammation, and reset abnormal muscle tone.

This technique is especially effective for athletes and active individuals who deal with chronic tightness, overuse injuries, or stubborn trigger points. It also works exceptionally well alongside chiropractic care and rehab, accelerating recovery and improving movement quality.

What Dry Needling Helps With

Muscle Tension 

Neck & shoulder tightness
Low back stiffness
Hip & Glute tension
Calf & Hamstring tightness

Pain & Overuse Injuries

Tendon irritation
Shin splints
Plantar fasciitis
Rotator cuff pain
Nerve Pain
autonomic disorder

Athletic Performance

Improved muscle activation
Better movement patterns
Faster recovery between training sessions

How Dry Needling Works at Van Meter Health

We don’t needle randomly, every insertion is based on assessment, palpation, and how your body is compensating. The goal is to make meaningful changes, not just “chase tight spots.”

Dr. Ryan uses dry needling strategically to influence the neuromuscular system, reduce protective tension, and restore proper movement mechanics.
Woman does exercise to stretch muscles, patient performing a strength training exercise assisted.

GET BACK TO MOVING BETTER

Whether you're dealing with pain, rehabbing an injury, or trying to perform at a higher level, booking is simple. Schedule a visit and take the first step.
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Dry Needling FAQ

Assessment & Palpation: We identify the specific muscle or trigger point causing dysfunction.
Needle Insertion: Quick and precise. You may feel a twitch or deep ache — both normal.
Neuromuscular Reset:  As the muscle relaxes, motion immediately improves.
Follow-Up Movement:  Light mobility or corrective exercise to reinforce the change.
Most patients experience relief and improved motion during the visit.
Most people feel a quick, deep ache or brief muscle twitch — this is normal and often indicates we’ve targeted the right area. The sensation typically lasts only a few seconds, and muscles usually feel looser immediately afterward.
Relief can last anywhere from several hours to several days after the first session. As mobility improves and tension decreases, results tend to last longer. Consistency — paired with rehab exercises — produces the strongest outcomes.
No. Although both use similar needles, the intention and clinical reasoning are completely different. Dry needling targets dysfunctional muscle tissue to improve mobility and reduce pain, whereas acupuncture is based on traditional Eastern medicine principles.
Light activity is fine and can even help reinforce the treatment. You may feel sore for 12–24 hours, similar to a hard workout. High-intensity training is best saved for the next day.
Yes. When performed by a trained clinician, dry needling is very safe. We use sterile, single-use needles and follow strict clinical standards. Side effects are typically mild and temporary, such as soreness or light fatigue.

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© 2026 Van Meter Health.
Chiropractic care and sports performance therapy located in Van Meter, Iowa, serving surrounding communities including Adel, Waukee, West Des Moines, Earlham, Booneville, and the greater Dallas County area.
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