What Is Dry Needling?
Dry needling is a technique used to treat musculoskeletal pain by inserting thin, sterile needles directly into trigger points; areas of tight, irritable muscle tissue that contribute to pain and restricted movement. Unlike acupuncture, which is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, dry needling is grounded in Western anatomy and neuroscience, targeting specific structures in the musculoskeletal system.
It is commonly used for conditions including neck and back pain, shoulder tension, sciatica, hip tightness, and sports-related muscle injuries. It can also be effective for recurring headaches tied to cervical muscle dysfunction. Patients often seek it out when other approaches have not fully resolved their symptoms, or as part of a broader treatment plan that includes chiropractic care or rehabilitation.
Dry Needling at Essential Motion
Dry needling at Essential Motion is performed by Dr. Geoffrey Buchta, DC, Dr. Jake Anderson, DC, and Dr. Keaton Hoeke, DC. Dr. Buchta is ART Full Body Certified and is currently pursuing his Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician (CCSP) designation, making dry needling a natural complement to his sports-focused practice. Dr. Anderson trained in dry needling alongside his certifications in Active Release Technique, Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy (MDT), and Selective Functional Movement Assessment (SFMA). Dr. Hoeke brings additional training in MDT and rehabilitation exercises, with a strong focus on helping patients understand and actively participate in their own recovery.
The approach at Essential Motion is integrative. Dry needling is rarely delivered in isolation: it is typically paired with chiropractic adjustments, Active Release Technique, or rehabilitation exercises to address both the trigger point and the underlying movement pattern contributing to symptoms. This combination, available under one roof in Elkhorn, allows for a more complete resolution than any single technique alone.
Learn more about the team on the About page.
What to Expect from Dry Needling at Essential Motion
Assessment
Treatment
Recovery
What Dry Needling Can Help With
Dry needling at Essential Motion is used to address:
- Muscle pain and trigger points: Reduces tension in overactive or shortened muscle tissue contributing to local or referred pain.
- Restricted movement: Helps restore range of motion in areas limited by tight musculature, supporting chiropractic adjustments and rehabilitation work.
- Sports and activity-related injuries: Addresses muscle overuse patterns in athletes and active patients returning to training.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. While both use thin needles, dry needling and acupuncture are distinct practices. Dry needling targets trigger points and musculoskeletal structures based on anatomy and pain science. Acupuncture follows traditional Chinese medicine principles and works along energy meridians. At Essential Motion, dry needling is performed by licensed chiropractors with specific dry needling training.
Most patients experience minimal discomfort during needle insertion. When a needle reaches an active trigger point, a brief involuntary muscle twitch may occur, which can feel like a short cramp or ache. This response typically lasts only a moment. Post-treatment soreness is common for 24 to 48 hours.
This varies depending on your condition and how your body responds. Many patients notice meaningful improvement within two to four sessions. Dry needling is often delivered alongside chiropractic care or rehab exercises for the most sustained outcomes.
Coverage varies by plan. We recommend contacting your insurer directly to confirm whether dry needling is included in your benefits. Our front desk can assist with any billing questions.
No. In Nebraska, you do not need a physician referral to see a chiropractor. You can book directly at Essential Motion.
Yes, and this is how it is most often used at Essential Motion. Dry needling addresses the muscular trigger point layer, while chiropractic adjustments work on joint mobility and alignment. Delivered together, they address more of the contributing factors simultaneously, which tends to produce faster and more durable results.
Book Your Dry Needling Appointment in Elkhorn
Dr. Buchta, Dr. Anderson, and Dr. Hoeke are accepting new patients at Essential Motion Spine & Sport in Elkhorn, NE.
If you are dealing with persistent muscle tension, movement restrictions, or a sports-related injury that has not fully resolved, dry needling may be a useful addition to your care plan. Your provider will confirm whether it is the right approach at your first visit.
