A case series by George, VanEtten, and Briggs examined the use of dry needling (DN) to treat the obturator internus, pelvic floor, and gluteal muscles, alongside other physical therapy techniques. The study focused on two patients—ages 72 and 62—both experiencing chronic pelvic pain (CPP). Researchers assessed changes in pain, hip range of motion, and overall mobility.
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Dry needling involves inserting a thin monofilament needle into a muscle to reduce pain, release trigger points, and improve blood flow. Research also shows DN may impact motor endplate function, mechanoreceptors, and spinal cord reflexes.
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In this case series, both patients received thorough external and internal pelvic assessments, including palpation for trigger points, tightness, and muscle activity. Treatments were performed by pelvic health physical therapists certified in dry needling, and in some sessions, electrical stimulation was applied through the needles.
Results:
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Patient A went from tolerating 5 minutes of walking to 30 minutes.
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Patient B improved from sitting for 20 minutes to 60 minutes.
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Both patients reached their functional goals and experienced significant pain relief.
This study highlights the role of trigger points in pelvic pain, and the potential of dry needling—a technique requiring specialized training—as an evidence-informed treatment option. Manual trigger point release has long shown benefits, and DN adds another effective tool for practitioners.
1. George A, VanEtten L, Briggs M. Dry Needling for Female Chronic Pelvic Pain: A Case Series. Journal of Women’s Health Physical Therapy. 2018;42(1):8-16.
2. Gerber LH, Shah J, Rosenberger W, et al. Dry Needling alters trigger points in the upper trapezius muscle and reduces pain in subjects with chronic myofascial pain. PMR. 2015;7(7):711-718.
2. Gerber LH, Shah J, Rosenberger W, et al. Dry Needling alters trigger points in the upper trapezius muscle and reduces pain in subjects with chronic myofascial pain. PMR. 2015;7(7):711-718.
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