DRY NEEDLING

Dry needling has become an increasingly popular and effective treatment for a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions. It’s especially beneficial for individuals suffering from chronic pain, muscle tightness, trigger points, tension headaches, neck and back pain, shoulder impingement, sciatica, and even some sports injuries like tennis elbow or runner’s knee. Many patients turn to dry needling after trying other treatments without lasting relief, and they’re often amazed at how quickly they notice a difference. This technique offers not only pain reduction but also improved mobility and function, helping people get back to doing what they love faster and with more confidence.

The experience of dry needling is generally well-tolerated and often empowering. During a session, a trained provider inserts very thin, sterile needles into specific trigger points or tight muscle bands. Patients may feel a brief twitch response or a deep ache, which is actually a sign the technique is working to release tension. While some soreness can occur afterward—similar to a workout—it usually subsides quickly and is often followed by a significant release in muscle tension and improved range of motion. Many patients report feeling lighter, looser, and more in control of their body after just a few treatments.

The mechanism behind dry needling is both fascinating and promising. When the needle is inserted into a trigger point, it disrupts dysfunctional motor end plates and resets the neuromuscular system. This helps reduce pain and restore normal muscle function by decreasing inflammation, increasing blood flow, and promoting the body’s natural healing processes. It also stimulates the release of endorphins—your body’s feel-good chemicals—creating both immediate relief and long-term benefits. With consistent sessions and proper follow-up exercises, dry needling can be a game-changer in a person’s journey to recovery, resilience, and peak physical performance.

Dr. Steven Paliakas stands out as a leading practitioner of dry needling in Wheaton and the surrounding communities, including Winfield, Downers Grove, and Naperville. With over two decades of experience, Dr. Paliakas has dedicated his career to providing exceptional care through innovative techniques like dry needling. His commitment to patient-centered treatment is evident at Nova Chiropractic Rehabilitation & Acupuncture, where he offers a comprehensive range of services tailored to individual needs. Patients consistently praise his expertise and compassionate approach, making him a trusted choice for those seeking effective relief from musculoskeletal pain

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a safe and gentle treatment using sterile needles with little to no side effects. Most patients report that an acupuncture treatment is a pleasant, relaxing experience.

Acupuncture is not something you “have to believe in” for it to work.

Research continues to demonstrate evidence that acupuncture is an effective treatment for chronic pain conditions beyond merely the placebo effect and is a reasonable treatment option for people suffering from chronic pain.

Acupuncture and pain
Acupuncture and low back pain 
Acupuncture and pain control
Acupuncture and migraines
Acupuncture and fertility
Acupuncture and seasonal allergies

(Archives of Internal Medicine. Sep  10, 2012)

Acupuncture demonstrated to be an effective treatment for seasonal allergies.

(Annals of Internal Medicine, Feb 2013)

Acupuncture is a useful therapy to down-regulate itch, urticaria or eczema .

(Allergy. Apr 2012; 67(4): 566–573.)

The American Pain Society and the American College of Physicians in 2007 recommend acupuncture for people with chronic pain who cannot take pain medication or respond to self-care

BATTLEFIELD ACUPUNCTURE

The term Battlefield Acupuncture was coined by Col. Richard Niemtzow MD, PhD who served as a consultant to the Surgeon General of the Air Force, denoting a specific auricular acupuncture technique to assist in pain relief and, in many cases, eliminate the need for pain medication for acute or chronic pain. Battlefield acupuncture  is not purposely designed to replace standard medical care for wartime injuries, but has helped decrease the need for opioid use during combat. To achieve successful outcomes, this acupuncture technique follows a specific protocol and Dr. Steven Paliakas has received specific training in the protocol and uses it in the clinic with good results.