Dry Needling in Cape Carteret, NC | Targeted Pain Relief at Atlantic Chiropractic

Dry needling is a targeted technique used to address musculoskeletal pain and movement issues. At Atlantic Chiropractic & Rehab, Dr. Christina Saracina uses dry needling to treat both acute and chronic pain, muscle spasms, trigger points, injury rehabilitation, and even injury prevention. It is one of the most effective methods available for identifying and addressing the neuromuscular dysfunction that leads to pain and reduced function.

What Is Dry Needling?

During treatment, very thin, solid needles are gently inserted into the muscle or connective tissue. These needles do not contain any medication, which is where the term “dry” needling comes from. The process creates a tiny, controlled micro-injury in the muscle, tendon, or ligament, which helps release tight areas and alleviate trigger points. Trigger points are localized bands of tight, dysfunctional muscle that can cause pain, tenderness, and restricted movement.

How Does It Work?

While the exact mechanism is not fully understood, current research suggests that these micro-injuries prompt your body to send healing cells to the area, increase blood flow, reduce irritation, and support natural tissue repair. The result is improved muscle function, decreased pain, and restored mobility.

Dry Needling vs. Acupuncture

People often ask whether dry needling is the same as acupuncture. The Integrative Dry Needling Institute states that modern dry needling is not traditional Chinese acupuncture. Dry needling practice is based on the laws of modern medicine, whereas traditional Chinese acupuncture is based on the laws of traditional Chinese medicine. Licensed chiropractors in North Carolina can perform dry needling with the required training, and Dr. Saracina brings that training together with her expertise in musculoskeletal diagnosis to deliver precise, effective treatment.

Conditions We Treat with Dry Needling

Dry needling is effective for a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions. At Atlantic Chiropractic, Dr. Saracina frequently combines dry needling with other therapies to address:

• Low back pain and muscle spasms
• Neck pain and stiffness
• Headaches and migraines triggered by chronic muscle tension and trigger points
• Shoulder, hip, and knee pain
• Plantar fasciitis
• TMJ disorders
• Tendonitis and overuse injuries
• Sports injuries, sprains, and strains
• Auto accident injuries and whiplash recovery

As a Certified Chiropractic Extremities Practitioner (CCEP), Dr. Saracina treats joints and soft tissue that many chiropractors do not. Her training covers everything from the shoulder down to the fingers and from the hips down to the toes. That means dry needling at Atlantic Chiropractic is not limited to the spine. If a trigger point in your forearm, calf, or foot is causing your pain, Dr. Saracina can identify and treat it directly.

What to Expect During Your First Session

Dr. Saracina takes her time with every patient, providing effective treatment without watching the clock. Your first dry needling session begins with a thorough evaluation to identify the specific trigger points and areas of dysfunction contributing to your pain. Once those areas are located, treatment begins.

Does Dry Needling Hurt?

Dry needling is usually well-tolerated and often causes little to no discomfort. Many patients barely feel the needle at all. Occasionally, you might notice a mild pinch, throb, or ache. This usually signals an area that will respond well to treatment. Sometimes, a local twitch response may occur when a trigger point releases. This is very brief, lasting less than a second, and is often described as a quick “zap” or a small cramp-like sensation. Most patients find it brief and manageable, and it is a sign that the treatment is working.

How Many Sessions Will I Need?

The answer varies for each patient. Some experience significant relief after just one session, while others require multiple treatments, particularly if the pain is chronic or long-standing. The approach at Atlantic Chiropractic aims to create mechanical and biochemical improvements without the use of medications. The goal is a cumulative effect: either complete resolution of symptoms or a sustained reduction in pain and dysfunction over time.

Are There Side Effects?

Many patients feel better after treatment, with relief lasting from a few hours to several weeks or even longer. It is normal to experience some temporary fatigue for up to a day, and mild soreness or bruising may appear, usually fading within 1 to 3 days. The needles come in sterile packaging and are discarded after each treatment.

Why Choose Atlantic Chiropractic for Dry Needling?

When you choose a provider for dry needling, the practitioner’s training and diagnostic ability matter as much as the technique itself. Here is what sets Atlantic Chiropractic apart:

• Palmer-trained chiropractor: Dr. Saracina graduated from Palmer College of Chiropractic and has been treating patients on the coast since 2009.
• CCEP certification: Over one hundred hours of additional training in extremity joints, including shoulders, elbows, wrists, hips, knees, ankles, and feet, gives Dr. Saracina the ability to trace your pain to its source, even when it originates outside the spine.
• Multiple modalities under one roof: Dry needling works even better when combined with complementary therapies. Atlantic Chiropractic also offers cold laser therapy, Graston Technique, RockTape kinesiology taping, and chiropractic adjustments, all coordinated by Dr. Saracina for your specific treatment plan.
• Unhurried appointments: Dr. Saracina takes the time to evaluate, explain, and treat without rushing through your visit.

Serving Swansboro, Emerald Isle, and Surrounding Areas

Atlantic Chiropractic & Rehab is located at 300-C Taylor Notion Road in Cape Carteret, NC 28584, just minutes from Swansboro, Emerald Isle, Newport, and Cedar Point. Whether you are a local resident dealing with chronic pain or one who needs relief fast, Dr. Saracina can often work you in quickly.

Your musculoskeletal system works tirelessly against gravity, stress, and daily demands. A healthy diet, consistent exercise routine, and good posture can keep it strong and pain-free. When discomfort returns, simple tune-ups not only relieve pain but also protect you from more serious injuries.

Ready to find out if dry needling is right for you? Call 252-764-9182 or fill out our new patient forms to get started.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dry Needling

Are the needles sterile?

Yes. The needles come in sterile packaging and are discarded after each treatment.

Is dry needling safe?

Dry needling is well-tolerated by most patients. Side effects are typically limited to temporary fatigue, mild soreness, or minor bruising that fades within a few days.

Once I am feeling better, will I need to come back?

Your musculoskeletal system works against gravity, stress, and daily demands every day. Maintaining a healthy diet, consistent exercise, and good posture goes a long way. When discomfort returns, periodic tune-ups can not only help relieve pain but can also help protect you from more serious injuries down the road.

Do I need a referral?

No referral is needed. Call 252-764-9182 to schedule your appointment directly with Dr. Saracina.