Dry needling is a physical therapy technique that releases tension built up in knots called trigger points. It can also help stimulate healing in tissue that’s stiff from overuse, injuries or scarring. It’s often used in treating plantar fasciitis because it penetrates deep into the affected tissue to provide lasting relief. Manual therapy, stretching and other traditional physical therapy modalities may not be able to target the plantar fascia as effectively.
There is evidence that dry needling is helpful for plantar fasciitis and other musculoskeletal conditions. In this article, we’ll outline four key findings you should know about.
How effective is dry needling for plantar fasciitis? 4 key findings
Clinical evidence is an important component of evidence-based care, both in physical therapy and in other practices. It should also be combined with other types of evidence — specifically, evidence of the patient’s life experiences and the evidence of the provider’s experience treating other patients.
Dry needling requires specialized training, and not all physical therapists can provide it. We have dry needling specialists at select Forever Fit locations. We’ve seen the transformation in patients who came in with plantar fasciitis that prevented them from walking normally. After just a few weeks, their gait was smoother and they were visibly more relaxed because they were no longer in pain.
These four key research findings show that dry needling is effective for plantar fasciitis:
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Significant pain reduction in clinical trials
Several clinical studies have found that physical therapy for plantar fasciitis is more effective when it includes dry needling. Dry needling is so effective for pain reduction because it helps to reduce inflammation of the plantar fascia, enhance local blood circulation and relieve tissue internal pressure. It may take up to a month before you start to feel the results, and there are a few different theories about why this happens.
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Improved functional outcomes
When the plantar fascia is free of pain and pressure, you can walk normally and return to your usual activities. This can bring significant improvements to your quality of life. In one study published in 2025, about 46% of participants noticed improved gait or walking after dry needling.
To maintain treatment gains in the long term, dry needling should be combined with lifestyle modifications like wearing supportive shoes. Depending on the cause, gait training and weight loss may also be helpful.
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Enhanced tissue healing response
When tissue is damaged from overuse, it needs fresh, oxygenated blood; nutrients; and gentle movement to heal. This is especially difficult in areas with limited blood flow. Inflammation is part of the body’s natural healing process. However, it needs to be cleared out for the next stages of tissue repair. Dry needling stimulates the body’s natural healing response, relieving inflammation from plantar fasciitis and drawing more blood to the area.
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High patient satisfaction rates
In a 2025 study on patient satisfaction after dry needling, around 70% reported improved pain and mobility, 38% noticed improved strength, and 46% were extremely likely to recommend dry needling to a friend or family member. Dry needling can cause some unwanted effects, such as pain during treatment, soreness and bruising. However, for many people, the long-term benefits outweigh these temporary setbacks.
Find relief from plantar fasciitis with dry needling at Forever Fit
People who have plantar fasciitis often deal with pain, stiffness and gait problems more than once in their lifetimes. Having flat feet or high arches can make you more likely to experience it. Carrying excess body weight, running long distances and wearing improper shoes can also be factors. Nagging pain and muscle spasms can limit your activity, affecting your quality of life. Many physical therapy treatments can provide some relief. When you add dry needling to the mix, you’re more likely to see better, longer-lasting results.
Dry needling isn’t for everyone. If you have a fear of needles, or if you have a bleeding condition or other health concern that may make it unsafe, let your PT know. They can work with you to create a treatment plan that’s both safe and effective.
At Forever Fit, we specialize in natural treatments that help with musculoskeletal problems like plantar fasciitis. We always start with an in-depth assessment to learn about your symptoms and how they’re affecting you. Your PT will suggest several modalities that are likely to provide relief. Dry needling requires special training, and providers at many of our locations have experience with it. Check out Rockville and Largo, or call the location nearest you and ask if it’s an option.
You can also call us today or fill out our online appointment request form to get started.
