Dr. Jon Kukor is a certified assistant instructor for Myopain Seminars, the leading dry needling certification program in the United States.
Precision Dry Needling for Neck, Back, Shoulder, and Knee Pain in Orlando and Winter Park, FL
Dry needling is a non-invasive treatment method that involves the insertion of thin, sterile needles into various points of the body known as trigger points. Because the needles do not inject any medicines, they are called “dry” needles. Although dry needling is often used in conjunction with acupuncture, these are two separate treatment methods with completely different philosophies.
While the goal of acupuncture is to examine the body from a holistic perspective and correct underlying dysfunction to restore balance, dry needling focuses on the musculoskeletal system in particular. Dry needling aims to identify and release muscle tension in order to improve flexibility, range of motion, and, ultimately, physical performance. This makes it particularly useful for treating a variety of sports injuries.
Of course, athletes don’t have a monopoly on musculoskeletal disorders. Many individuals struggle with muscle pain. Whether you’re suffering from chronic ailments, like arthritis or tendonitis, or an acute injury, like a sprained ankle, dry needling can benefit you and help restore proper muscle function.
Targeted Treatment That Gets to the Root of Your Pain
When a dry needle is inserted into a tight muscle, it breaks up the tense muscle fibers, creating localized micro-trauma. Although this increases inflammation temporarily, it also stimulates circulation. By improving the flow of blood, oxygen, and nutrients to the injured tissues, dry needling can drastically improve recovery time and provide you with immediate relief from musculoskeletal pain.
Dry needling also triggers the release of endorphins, feel-good neurotransmitters that latch onto the opioid receptors in the brain and make it easier for the body to handle pain. As the needle is inserted, it stimulates the muscle, causing it to twitch and then relax. By working with the body’s reflexes, dry needling encourages your muscles to heal themselves, without the use of prescription pain medications.
During your dry needling session, your doctor will perform a physical evaluation to assess your pain and pinpoint its origin. Understanding where the pain starts allows your doctor to formulate a successful treatment plan for you.
Dr. Jon Kukor is a Myopain Certified Myofascial Trigger Point Therapist (CMTPT) who has received the highest level of dry needling certification available, so you can be confident that you’ll receive state-of-the-art care as you begin your journey to recovery.
If you’ve never experienced dry needling before, it’s nothing to be afraid of. Dry needling is not painful. Patients often report moderate pressure when the needle is inserted, and slight discomfort as the needle releases built-up tension.
You may be advised to perform a few stretches after your treatment to further improve your range of motion. Many patients experience noticeable relief from their first dry needling session as it helps to reduce stress and encourages relaxation.
Does dry needling hurt?
Most patients describe a brief muscle twitch or cramping sensation when the needle contacts a trigger point. This is a normal response and typically lasts only a second or two. The sensation is often described as pressure rather than pain, and most patients find the overall experience very manageable.
What is the difference between dry needling and acupuncture?
Dry needling targets myofascial trigger points in muscles using a Western anatomical approach focused on pain and musculoskeletal dysfunction. Acupuncture is rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine and works with a broader system of points and meridians to address both physical and systemic conditions. Dr. Kukor is trained in both and often incorporates them together depending on your condition.
How many dry needling sessions will I need?
The number of sessions varies by condition and severity. Some patients experience significant relief after two or three sessions. Others with chronic or complex conditions benefit from an ongoing series of treatments. Dr. Kukor will outline a realistic plan at your first visit.
Can dry needling be combined with other treatments?
Yes, and it often is. Dry needling pairs effectively with acupuncture, cupping, and electroacupuncture. Dr. Kukor frequently incorporates multiple approaches into a single treatment plan for patients dealing with chronic pain or musculoskeletal dysfunction.
Is there any downtime after a dry needling session?
Most patients resume normal activities immediately after treatment. Some experience mild soreness in the treated area for 24 to 48 hours, similar to the feeling after an intense workout. Staying hydrated and applying heat to sore areas can help ease any post-treatment discomfort.
Who performs dry needling at Orlando Alternative Health?
All dry needling at Orlando Alternative Health is performed personally by Dr. Jon Kukor, DTCM, CMTPT. He holds advanced certification in myofascial trigger point therapy and brings that precision to every session.
Dry needling is most effective as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. At Orlando Alternative Health, we work with each patient to build an individualized plan that addresses the root cause of their pain, not just the symptoms. Whether you need dry needling alone or in combination with acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine, we will develop an approach that fits your goals. Contact our office today to book your first appointment.
Dry needling pairs well with acupuncture and cupping for patients dealing with chronic musculoskeletal pain, and is sometimes combined with Chinese herbal medicine to support recovery from the inside out.
Certified Myofascial Trigger Point Therapist (CMTPT) — Myopain Seminars