What causes poor flexibility?

Poor flexibility can be caused by a number of contributing factors. Possible causes include:

1. Sedentary Lifestyle

Lack of physical activity or inactivity for long periods can cause muscle tightness and stiffness.

2. Age

As we age, our muscles lose elasticity.

3. Inactivity Due to Injury 

Inactivity due to injury or surgery can cause muscle stiffness and reduced flexibility, just as a sedentary lifestyle can. It is best to consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate strengthening and stretching following an injury.

4. Genetics 

Genetics can play a role in determining how flexible someone is.

5. Muscle Imbalance 

Muscle imbalance or weakness can cause poor flexibility. Muscles can be overused and tight or underutilized and weak.

6. Poor Posture 

Poor posture can cause muscle imbalances. It is best to change your posture throughout the day. For example, try to stand at least every other hour if you have a desk job.

7. Chronic Medical Conditions 

Certain medical conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia, or multiple sclerosis can cause joint stiffness, leading to poor flexibility.

What are ways to improve poor flexibility?

Routine stretching exercises can help improve flexibility. Focus on stretching the muscles that feel tight or restricted, and hold each stretch for at least 30 seconds for a static stretch. 

Static stretching, dynamic stretching, contract-relax stretching (PNF), and passive stretching are all types of stretching. Practicing yoga can help improve flexibility, balance, strength, and relaxation. Starting with a beginner's class or video is recommended to avoid injury. 

Similar to yoga, Pilates is low-impact and places emphasis on core activation, form, and flexibility. It involves a series of exercises that help improve flexibility, strength, and proprioception. Regular massage can help improve flexibility by reducing muscle tension, which can improve range of motion.

Massage can also increase blood flow to a tight muscle or area. Engaging in regular physical activity and avoiding being sedentary can help with overall flexibility and wellbeing. Exercise can improve flexibility and keep your muscles from being tight and weak.

Be conscious of your form and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your flexibility exercises over time.

Overexertion can lead to injury. It's important to consult a physician, physical therapist, or qualified fitness professional before beginning any new exercise program, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions.

Do these gentle stretches and range of motion exercises to improve flexibility.

1. Posterior pelvic tilt in supine

• To perform this exercise, lie on your back on a yoga mat or other firm surface with your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor. 
• Think about the points of your pelvis coming towards your ribs.
• Your low back should round down onto the mat or floor, and the space between your pelvis and front ribs should shorten.

2. Cat/Camel or Arch/Curl in quadruped

• To perform this exercise, get on your hands and knees. If you have wrist issues, you can make your hands into a fist and put your knuckles on the floor. 
• To perform the cat portion of the exercise, round your mid and lower back and curl your core in. Look down towards the floor. 
• To perform the camel portion, arch your back, lift your chest, and look forward.
• Alternate between the two for the desired number of sets and reps.

3. Thread the needle

• To perform this exercise, get on your hands and knees. This should be done with both sides leading, but for the purpose of being concise, I will explain this as if the right arm is moving. 
• Keep your left hand on the ground and lift your right arm overhead while twisting at your midback. 
• You should open your chest towards the right side of the area you’re in and look up towards your right hand. Next, bring your right arm back towards your body and bring it across your body towards the left.
• Thread the right arm behind the left arm and twist at your midback to "thread the needle".
• Repeat on the same side for the desired number of sets or reps, then perform on the other side.

4. Lower trunk rotation stretch

• To perform this exercise, lie on your back with your knees bent and your feet on the ground. 
• Exhale as you let both knees fall to one side, inhale and hold, and bring the legs back to the starting position as you exhale again.
• Repeat on the other side and alternate.

6. Arch/Curl in sitting

• Sit in a chair that is low enough for you to be able to place both feet flat on the ground. 
• Feel your weight evenly distributed between your sits bones.
• Feel both of your heels on the ground and act as if a string is pulling the crown of your head towards the ceiling to sit up straight.
• To arch, perform an anterior pelvic tilt.
• Your low back should arch, and your hip pointers should tilt forward and down towards the ground. To curl, perform a posterior pelvic tilt.
• You should feel your low back round, and your hip pointers should go towards your lower ribs to curl.

7. Side stretch in sitting

• Sit with your weight evenly distributed in your sits bones. 
• Place your left hand on either your arm rest or thigh on the same side.
• Reach your right arm overhead and lean towards the left.
• You should feel a stretch in your side.
• Try to avoid lifting your sitting bones off the chair.
• Repeat on the opposite side.

It's important to identify the cause of poor flexibility to fully address it. A qualified fitness professional or healthcare provider can help determine the underlying cause and develop a guided plan to improve flexibility and/or strength, if that is your goal.

Learn more HERE.

Click on our blog to learn 7 stretches with the Stretch Out Strap.

Local to the Austin area? Give us a call at 512-215-4227 to learn more about how we can help you improve your flexibility with our physical therapy, Pilates and Gyrotonic programs.

1. What are the most common types of posture problems (kyphosis, lordoisis, forward head, flatback, scoliosis)? What causes these issues?

The most common postural problems that I see as a physical therapist with 25 years of experience are excessive lumbar lordosis and forward head posture. Many times, the two are seen together. 

Lumbar lordosis, also known as swayback, is caused by tightness of the hip flexors and weakness of the core. As a society, we sit too much for work, entertainment, driving, and just living. We sit more now than at any time in recorded history because of our reliance on technology for most occupations and fields. 

As the hip flexors get tighter, the antagonist muscle, the multifidus, gets weaker. As people make an attempt to use their abdominals and multifidus, they actually end up just creating a bigger swayback, or lordosis. 

A forward head is caused by weakness of the core, tightness of the chest, and the muscles in the front, side, and back of the neck. This causes the shoulder blades to go up towards the ears and the head to go forward, causing forward head posture. This is caused by sitting and technology, as already discussed.

The opposite of lumbar lordosis would be a flat-back posture. This can be caused by muscle imbalances as well. Often, this is paired with a posterior pelvic tilt as opposed to an anterior pelvic tilt paired with excessive lumbar lordosis. Hamstrings, abdominals, and glutes are often tight and overactive with a flat lumbar spine. The lumbar paraspinals, hip flexors, and deep core muscles are often inhibited and weak.

Excessive thoracic kyphosis, also known as a rounded upper back or hunchback, can be caused by several factors. Thoracic kyphosis can be related to forward head posture and the amount of time spent sitting as well. Ergonomics at work can play a role too. 

One of the most common causes of excessive thoracic kyphosis is poor posture, particularly from prolonged sitting or using electronic devices with poor ergonomics. As we age, disc height can decrease. This can result in a more rounded upper back. 

Osteoporosis can increase the risk of thoracic kyphosis as well. Some people may be genetically predisposed to developing thoracic kyphosis. Weakness in the muscles of the upper back and shoulders, combined with tightness in the chest muscles, can also contribute. Injuries or trauma to the spine or upper back can lead to excessive thoracic kyphosis. Certain medical conditions, such as Scheuermann's disease, can also be related to this.

Type of Scoliosis

Idiopathic scoliosis is the most common type of scoliosis, and its cause is unknown. It usually develops during childhood or adolescence and affects girls more often than boys. 

Congenital scoliosis is present at birth and is caused by abnormal spinal development in the womb. 

Neuromuscular scoliosis is caused by a medical condition that affects the muscles and nerves, such as muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, or a spinal cord injury. 

Degenerative scoliosis is a type of scoliosis that occurs with the degeneration of the spine due to aging or trauma. 

Traumatic scoliosis is caused by a traumatic injury to the spine, such as a fracture or dislocation. 

Functional scoliosis occurs when the spine appears to have a curve, but the curve is not due to a structural abnormality in the spine. Rather, it is caused by poor posture, muscle imbalance, or leg length discrepancy.

2. How do these postures deviate from good posture?

If the lower back is in a swayback position and the head is forward, it can cause you to lose height. The head is like a 15-pound bowling ball and should be sitting on top of the cervical spine, not leaning forward. There should be a slight lordosis in the lower back, in the area in between lordosis and flatback. 

Thoracic kyphosis is normal, but excessive thoracic kyphosis can be related to pain and muscle imbalance. The most common curvatures of scoliosis can be either a right or left curve, usually in the thoracic or lumbar spine. The curves can vary in degree and severity. These curves are in the coronal plane as opposed to the sagittal plane that lumbar lordosis and thoracic kyphosis are in.

3. What are the long-term effects of bad posture?

Most people focus on the pain that comes from poor postures, like headaches and neck pain from forward head posture and sciatic and low back pain from swayback, but I like to dig deeper. The consequences of these poor postures on the organs are frequently overlooked. 

Forward head posture causes increased tension in the lungs and makes it harder to take a full breath. Lordosis tends to create a forward-spilling effect of the abdominals, causing weakness and pressure on the reproductive organs.

4. What are the best ways to improve posture?

I recommend having an evaluation with a licensed physical therapist to learn what type of posture you have and what kind of plan you would need to improve it. 

For forward head and swayback, I teach my patients how to stretch or release the tight muscles pulling them forward, followed by strengthening the weak antagonist muscles. 

My favorite is to have someone lay on a 3-foot foam roller to open their chest and then practice abdominal and pelvic floor strengthening with a neutral spine. This is just one of many exercises, but it addresses both forward head posture and excessive lordosis.

5. How can posture correctors help?

I think posture correctors are good for the early phases of strengthening the postural muscles, but I do not think they are a good long-term solution. You need muscle strength and postural awareness on your own to make postural changes. Postural awareness is the hardest thing to find, and it takes a while. Using a postural corrector in conjunction with postural awareness exercises can be of short-term benefit.

6. How long does it take to correct posture?

The younger you are, the easier it is to improve long-term posture. However, young people today have bad posture sooner than those from my generation. We did not have computers or phones until after college, and my kids have had those things since an early age, contributing to poor posture sooner. Postural strength improvements require several months of awareness of where your shoulder blades and lower back are in space. 

I was 28 when I finally made long-term improvements in my posture. I practiced Pilates after my stretching and release routine, and after about 6 months, I was 2 inches taller with improved posture.

Learn more about posture here. Common Posture Problems and How to Fix 

Check out my new favorite chair to help you sit in good posture all day…  Why You Should Choose the Duorest Ergonomic Chair from Ergospace: Unveiling the Future of Comfort at Work

Call 512-215-4227 if you are in the Austin area and would like to learn more about how we can help you with your posture. 

What is the difference between the Pilates Mat and the Pilates Reformer?

Both Mat Pilates and Reformer Pilates offer unique benefits and can be effective forms of exercise, depending on individual goals and needs. Mat Pilates is a form of Pilates that involves performing exercises on a mat using body weight as resistance.

It is a low-impact form of exercise that can help improve core strength, balance, flexibility, and posture. Mat Pilates can be done anywhere as it requires minimal equipment, making it a convenient option for home workouts or traveling.

Reformer Pilates involves performing exercises on a specially designed machine called a reformer, which provides resistance through springs and pulleys. It can help improve strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination and is particularly useful for people recovering from an injury or those with joint issues.

Both forms of Pilates can be effective for different fitness goals and levels. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual goals and preferences. Reformer Pilates is a low-impact form of exercise that utilizes a specially designed machine called a reformer. Here are some of the benefits of practicing Pilates on the Reformer:

Improved Strength

Reformer Pilates exercises focus on improving core strength, stability, and balance. This can help improve overall strength, which can have a positive impact on daily activities.

Increased Flexibility

Reformer Pilates exercises can help improve flexibility, range of motion, and joint mobility. This can help reduce muscle tension and prevent injuries.

Low Impact

Reformer Pilates is a low-impact form of exercise, making it an ideal option for people with joint issues or those recovering from an injury.

Improved Posture

Reformer Pilates exercises can help improve posture by strengthening the muscles that support the spine and improving alignment.

Increased Body Awareness

Reformer Pilates exercises require focus and concentration, which can improve body awareness and mindfulness.

Stress Reduction 

Reformer Pilates exercises can help reduce stress and promote relaxation, making them an excellent option for people looking to de-stress and unwind. Pilates involves breath work, which can contribute to this.

Customizable Workouts

Reformer Pilates exercises can be modified to suit different fitness levels and goals, making it a versatile form of exercise. There are several ways to use Pilates equipment or mat Pilates exercises that are appropriate for all fitness levels. It is best to begin Pilates with a trainer or at a facility where you can get direct instructions on form and performance of the basics.

Overall, reformer Pilates is an effective form of exercise that can have numerous physical and mental health benefits. Details are highlighted below.

How many times a week should you do Reformer Pilates?

I recommend that you do two to three Pilates Reformer classes or private sessions per week. Once a week is a good start, but there is too much time in between sessions for a beginner to get the mental and physical aspects of Pilates.

Two to three times per week is recommended for novice Pilates students, and once the mental awareness starts to improve, it is fine to attend less frequently. I would also recommend taking five private lessons before jumping into a group class with multiple people and less individual attention.

Is mat Pilates as good as reformer Pilates?

Mat Pilates, in my opinion, is more difficult than reformer Pilates, at least at first. I encourage people to start with the reformer and progress to mat work. The reformer is designed to assist and resist. The assistance from the reformer initially really helps with the awareness improvements.

Mat Pilates is basically you and gravity on a mat. It is more accessible and cheaper than using the reformer, but more challenging for the novice Pilates student. In our Pilates teacher training program, we progress our students through the reformer and other Pilates equipment before teaching mat work. This allows them time to get stronger, both mentally and physically, before progressing to the more challenging mat work.

What are the benefits of reformer Pilates?

The reformer is a great piece of exercise equipment that offers hundreds and hundreds of unique exercises. You can strengthen your entire body in one session while focusing on mental awareness of proper form and breathing. Pilates is a total-body workout that does not isolate the back, biceps, chest, and legs on separate days.

In Pilates, all exercises originate from the powerhouse, or core. If you are doing leg exercises or arm exercises, your core is engaged, or should be engaged, with every exercise. Core strength, pain reduction, improved posture, and flexibility are some of the benefits that our Pilates clients and physical therapy patients report every day using the Pilates reformer.

How fast do you see results with Reformer Pilates?

Joseph Pilates had a quote that said, "In 10 sessions you'll feel the difference, in 20 you'll see the difference, and in 30 you'll have a new body." I will leave that answer to the man who created the system and equipment.

Is reformer Pilates good for weight loss?

Pilates is not a magic pill for weight loss, but it can be a great complement to eating healthy and performing cardio exercises. There is some cardio in Pilates Reformer classes, but that is not the intention. We see people tone up and make postural improvements that are just as powerful as weight loss.

Reformer Pilates can be an effective component of a weight loss program, but it should be combined with other forms of exercise and a healthy diet for optimal results. Reformer Pilates exercises focus on building lean muscle mass, which can help boost metabolism and burn more calories even at rest.

However, Pilates alone may not burn enough calories to lead to significant weight loss. Incorporating cardiovascular exercises such as running, cycling, or swimming along with a healthy diet can help create a calorie deficit that can lead to weight loss. Additionally, Pilates can help improve body composition by building lean muscle mass while reducing body fat.

This can lead to a leaner and toned appearance, even if the number on the scale remains the same. In summary, Reformer Pilates can be a useful addition to a weight loss program, but it should be combined with other forms of exercise and a healthy diet for optimal results. If you feel you need guidance for cardio and/or nutrition, it is best to consult with a healthcare provider, nutritionist, and/or trainer.

Check out the blog from Womens Health HERE:

Learn more about the Pilates Reformer at How Do I Try A Pilates Reformer Workout For Beginners?

Call 512-215-4227 to get started with us at & Pilates in Austin / West Lake Hills, Texas.

What are signs of a weak core?

A weak core can have several signs and symptoms, including:

1. Poor Posture

A weak core can cause poor posture, leading to slouching or a hunched-over appearance.

2. Lower Back Pain

A weak core can cause lower back pain or discomfort, as the muscles in the lower back are forced to work harder to compensate for the lack of core strength.

3. Poor Balance

A weak core can lead to poor balance, making it harder to perform daily activities like standing, walking, or climbing stairs.

4. Reduced Flexibility

A weak core can cause reduced flexibility, leading to stiffness or tightness in the hips and lower back.

5. Difficulty Performing Abdominal Exercises

Difficulty performing abdominal exercises like crunches or sit-ups can be a sign of a weak core.

6. Difficulty Breathing

A weak core can make it harder to breathe deeply or fully, as the muscles involved in breathing are interconnected with the core muscles.

If you experience any of these signs or symptoms, it's important to focus on strengthening your core muscles through exercises like planks, bridges, and Pilates. A qualified fitness professional or physical therapist can help develop a plan to improve core strength and reduce these symptoms.

How often should I do core exercises?

The frequency of core exercises depends on individual goals and fitness levels. However, as a rule, it is recommended to perform core exercises at least 2-3 times per week, in addition to other forms of exercise.

For beginners, it's essential to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and frequency of core exercises. Starting with 1-2 sessions per week can help the body adjust to the exercises and reduce the risk of injury.

For intermediate to advanced exercisers, it's recommended to perform core exercises 3–4 times per week. This frequency can help build strength and endurance in the core muscles. It is important to note that rest and recovery are just as important as exercise itself.

It's recommended to take a day of rest between core exercise sessions to allow the muscles to recover and prevent overuse injuries. It's also essential to vary the types of core exercises performed to target different muscle groups and prevent boredom.

Incorporating a variety of exercises such as planks, bridges, crunches, and Pilates can help achieve the best results.

How do you know if your core is getting stronger?

There are a few signs and indicators that your core is getting stronger. A stronger core can lead to better posture, as the muscles in the core support the spine and help maintain proper alignment. A stronger core can lead to improved balance, making it easier to perform activities that require stability, such as yoga, running, or weightlifting.

As your core muscles get stronger, you may notice that you can maintain abdominal exercises like planks or sit-ups for longer periods of time, indicating increased muscular endurance. A stronger core can help relieve lower back pain or discomfort, as the muscles in the core can better support the spine and reduce the load on the lower back.

Improved athletic performance can also be noted, as the muscles in the core play a critical role in many sports and activities. The muscles involved in respiration are interconnected with the core muscles and can lead to improved breathing.

If you notice any of these signs or symptoms, it's a good indication that your core is getting stronger. Keep in mind that core strength takes time and consistency to develop, so it's essential to stick to a regular exercise routine and gradually increase the intensity of your workouts over time.

What happens when core muscles are weak?

When the core muscles are weak, it can lead to a range of issues and symptoms. Poor posture is one sign. The core muscles help support the spine, and weak core muscles can lead to poor posture, causing the body to slouch or hunch over. Weak core muscles can cause lower back pain, as the muscles in the lower back have to work harder to compensate for the lack of core strength.

The core muscles play a crucial role in maintaining balance and stability, and weak core muscles can lead to reduced balance and coordination. An increased risk of injury is another possible side effect of a weak core. Weak core muscles can increase the risk of injury, as the body is less able to support itself during physical activity.

Limited flexibility can also be a result, as the muscles in the hips and lower back may become stiff or tight. Weak core muscles can make it harder to breathe deeply or fully as well. If you experience any of these symptoms, it's essential to focus on strengthening your core muscles through exercises like planks, bridges, and Pilates. A qualified fitness professional or physical therapist can help develop a plan to improve core strength and reduce these symptoms.

How can I prevent this? What core exercises should I do?

As a Pilates Physical Therapist, I want to share a few Pilates moves to start.

• The Hundred / 100
• Roll Up
• Roll Over
• Criss Cross
• Rolling like a Ball
• Swimming

Next, I want to share some more traditional Physical Therapy exercises to improve core strength.

• Bridging
• Dead Bug
• Quadruped alternating arm and leg lift
• Prone alternating arm and leg lift
• Side plank

To summarize, our body's core is the central link that connects the upper and lower body and is crucial for balance, posture, and movement. If neglected, a weak core can manifest in several discomforting ways, like poor posture, lower back pain, reduced flexibility, and diminished balance, to name a few.

This blog, penned from a physical therapist's perspective, illuminates the importance of a robust core and answers pertinent questions related to identifying a weak core, understanding the ideal frequency of core exercises, and recognizing signs of improved core strength.

Learn about the potential risks of a weak core as well as a curated selection of Pilates and traditional Physical Therapy exercises to bolster your core strength effectively.

Our expert physical therapist breaks down each exercise, making this guide a handy resource for those starting their journey towards a stronger core as well as for seasoned fitness enthusiasts seeking to enhance their core workout regimen. Empower your fitness journey with this comprehensive guide to core exercises.

Learn more about ways to strengthen your core by clicking HERE.

Read this blog  to learn more about how we help people with back pain by strengthening their core.

What is dry needling?

Dry needling is a minimally invasive intervention that uses a thin needle of varying lengths, depending on the tissue that is being treated. For example, bigger muscles sometimes call for longer needles. Dry needling is used to target soft tissue such as muscles, tendons, and fascia. It is called "dry" needling because nothing is injected into the body via the needle.

Depending on the targeted tissue and what is appropriate for each client, dry needling is usually a quick technique that takes minutes. It can be an in-and-out technique or left in for a few minutes.

This depends on the area and specific soft tissue that is being treated. Physical therapists in the United States began using dry needling in the 1980s. It has become a more popular intervention in recent years for physical therapists.

Dry needling can also be practiced by athletic trainers, for example. Guidelines and restrictions surrounding dry needling and who can practice it are usually determined by the state.

Dry needling and acupuncture share some similarities, such as the use of a thin needle. 

However, they have different goals, histories, and methods. Acupuncture has been around for thousands of years and is also practiced around the world. Dry needling is not as widely practiced. Acupuncture can address more systemic problems and targets more than just musculoskeletal pain.

Energy flow or meridians can be a common target for acupuncture. However, they can also target muscles like dry needling does. The needle placement is not always specific to a painful area like it is in dry needling. Dry needling is more direct to the painful area and primarily targets the musculoskeletal system, specifically soft tissue dysfunction.

How does dry needling work?

The main goal of dry needling is to target a trigger point and initiate a healing response at a physiological level. A trigger point can be defined as an irritable point in a muscle that is associated with an irritated and palpable nodule in a taut band of muscle. When a trigger point is palpated, it frequently refers pain elsewhere.

This is defined as a latent trigger point. Without being palpated, trigger points can also refer pain elsewhere. These are called active trigger points and are usually common pain generators. These are usually located in the belly of a muscle. Active trigger points can sometimes become latent trigger points. When dry needling is used on a trigger point, it can create a twitch response. This is an involuntary contraction or twitch of the muscle.

In theory, this releases the taut bands and muscular tension. In addition, inserting a needle into soft tissue can cause microtrauma. This can activate the body’s normal immune response to initiate a healing response. Also, this is similar to the body’s physiological response to a paper cut, for example.

What is dry needling used for?

Dry needling is best for soft tissue dysfunction. The target tissue of dry needling is usually inserted directly into a trigger point of a muscle or the peripheral soft tissue of the painful area and/or pain generator. It can be used for low back pain if appropriate. This is my personal favorite treat. Additionally, it can also be appropriate for neck, shoulder, hip, thigh, heel, and lower leg pain.

What are the risks and contraindications of dry needling?

Dry needling can be uncomfortable or painful during the process. You may notice some tightness, aching, or twitching while the needle is inserted into the soft tissue. Soreness can occur and may last a few days. Common side effects include bruising, bleeding, muscle soreness, drowsiness, and fatigue.

Depending on the case, dry needling can sometimes provide (usually temporary) relief after one visit. However, there is not a set number of visits it takes to provide relief. It is meant to be used in conjunction with other interventions such as manual therapy and exercise. The success of the intervention depends on the case.

Dry needling is not for anyone who has a fear of needles, is uncomfortable with, or is unsure about the intervention.

It is also inappropriate for those who are immunocompromised, have blood diseases, or are on blood thinners. It is also contraindicated for those with cancer, fresh scar tissue, sutures, infection, non-controlled diabetes, autoimmune diseases, breast implants, pacemakers, bone stimulators, spine stimulators, pregnancy, seizure disorders, or prior to 12 weeks post-op.

Pneumothorax is the most serious risk that comes with dry needling. This is an unintentional puncture of the lung. This would require medical treatment. Shortness of breath, for example, can last for days or weeks. A more severe lung puncture may require hospitalization.

However, this is rare. Risks may include infection, bruising, or nerve injury. Bruising is a common occurrence and should not be a cause for concern. The needles are notably small and do not have a cutting edge. The occurrence of any significant tissue trauma from dry needling is not common. I avoid needling certain areas such as the anterior neck, trunk, and midback for safety reasons.

Avoiding pneumothorax is one of the reasons I avoid the thoracic spine and lung field areas. This is done to avoid arteries, nerves, and organs. It is usually not an intervention that is appropriate to use in every therapy session. I also prefer to use more conservative measures such as exercise and manual therapy.

These methods are less aggressive and easier to use to help you manage your symptoms independently. 

Areas that are needled and methods that are used vary across providers due to where they completed their training and how they were taught specifically. After your provider has completed a physical evaluation and assessment, dry needling is most appropriate.

This is important to rule out any red flags and determine if the client is appropriate for the intervention. If you fit the criteria and have not been able to fully relieve your pain with other methods, you may have success giving dry needling a try.

Dry Needling at CORE Therapy & Pilates in Westlake Hills.

More information on dry needling can be found at here. 

Thanks for reading, and please call 512.215.4227 for dry needling in Austin.