Dry Needling · Batavia, IL
Stubborn Muscle Tension That Massage Can't Touch?
If you've stretched, foam rolled, and visited massage therapists — but certain knots just keep coming back — trigger point dry needling may be the missing piece. At Function Chiropractic, dry needling targets the deep myofascial trigger points that other hands-on therapies can't reach, giving your muscles a chance to finally let go.
Every dry needling session is performed by Dr. Cody Noyes and integrated into a complete care plan — not offered as a standalone treatment. That combination is what makes results last.
Book a New Patient EvaluationWhy Patients Choose Function
What Makes Our Approach Different
- One-on-one with Dr. Cody every single visit
- Full evaluation before any treatment begins
- Root cause focus — not symptom management
- Dry needling combined with adjustments, soft tissue work & rehab — never standalone
- Clear explanation of findings and next steps at every visit
The Science Behind It
What Is Dry Needling?
Dry needling uses thin monofilament needles — similar in diameter to a human hair — inserted directly into myofascial trigger points: tight, hypersensitive knots in your muscle tissue that cause local and referred pain.
When the needle reaches the trigger point, the muscle often produces a brief involuntary twitch. That twitch response signals a neurological reset — interrupting the pain-spasm cycle, increasing local blood flow, and allowing the muscle to relax at a level that massage and stretching simply can't access.
Dr. Cody may also use electrical stimulation (e-stim) through the needles to enhance muscle relaxation when appropriate.
Step by Step
What to Expect During Treatment
- 1Trigger point identification — Dr. Cody locates the target muscles through hands-on assessment before any needle is placed.
- 2Needle insertion — A thin monofilament needle is guided into the trigger point. Most patients feel minimal discomfort on entry.
- 3Muscle twitch response — A brief involuntary twitch may occur — this is a positive sign that the trigger point has been engaged.
- 4Needle remains briefly — The needle may be gently manipulated to maximize the response, then removed.
- 5Post-treatment soreness is normal — Mild achiness for 24–48 hours is common. Dry needling is always paired with other therapies the same visit.
Understanding the Difference
Dry Needling vs. Acupuncture
Dry Needling
- Western medicine framework
- Targets myofascial trigger points
- Based on anatomy, physiology & evidence
- Practiced by chiropractors & physical therapists
- Goal: release muscle tension, restore movement
Acupuncture
- Traditional Chinese Medicine framework
- Targets energy meridians (Qi)
- Based on Eastern philosophy
- Practiced by licensed acupuncturists
- Goal: restore energetic balance
Both can be effective for different goals. At Function Chiropractic, dry needling is used as part of a comprehensive musculoskeletal care plan — not as a standalone or energetic therapy.
Common Applications
Conditions Dry Needling May Help
Dry needling is most effective when used as part of a comprehensive plan. These are conditions Dr. Cody commonly addresses with dry needling as one component of care.
Lumbar trigger points, muscle guarding, and chronic tension that can contribute to lower back dysfunction.
Suboccipital and upper trap trigger points that may refer pain into the head, jaw, and shoulders.
Piriformis and deep hip rotator trigger points that can contribute to sciatic nerve irritation.
Shoulder Tension
Rotator cuff, trap, and posterior shoulder trigger points commonly associated with impingement and restricted range of motion.
Sports Injuries & Recovery
Muscle-specific needling to address overuse patterns, improve recovery time, and restore optimal movement mechanics.
Plantar Fasciitis & Foot Pain
Calf and intrinsic foot muscle trigger points that may contribute to heel pain and reduced foot function.
This information is educational, not diagnostic. Results vary by individual.
The Integrated Method
How Dry Needling Fits Your Care Plan
Dry needling is a powerful tool — but only when paired with the right foundation. At Function Chiropractic, it is never used in isolation. Every patient receives a complete assessment before any needles are involved.
The most consistent results come from combining dry needling with chiropractic adjustments to restore joint mobility, soft tissue work to address surrounding structures, and a targeted rehab program to reinforce changes at home.
That combination — structure + neurology + movement — produces faster, more lasting results than any single technique alone.
Your Visit Structure
The Function Approach
Our Philosophy
A Tool That Works Best in the Right Hands
Dry needling can produce remarkable results — but precision matters. The needle placement, depth, and angle are only as good as the assessment that precedes it. That's why every patient at Function Chiropractic undergoes a thorough evaluation before any dry needling is considered.
Dr. Cody takes an education-first approach: you'll understand what's contributing to your symptoms, why dry needling may be appropriate, and what realistic progress looks like. Patients who understand their own body heal faster and stay better longer.
"The education aspect of healthcare has been lost."
— Dr. Cody Noyes, Function Chiropractic
New Patient Process
What to Expect at Your First Visits
Dry needling does not begin on Visit 1 — and that's intentional. Your first appointment is a comprehensive evaluation: detailed history, orthopedic and neurological testing, spinal analysis, and movement and posture assessment.
At Visit 2, Dr. Cody presents your report of findings and, if dry needling is appropriate for your case, incorporates it into your first treatment alongside adjustments and soft tissue work.
Learn more: New Patient Information →
Timeline
Your Care Process
- 1Visit 1 — Full EvaluationHistory, orthopedic & neurological testing, spinal analysis, movement and posture assessment. No treatment this visit.
- 2Visit 2 — Report & First TreatmentDr. Cody reviews findings, answers questions, and begins care — which may include dry needling if appropriate.
- 3Ongoing CareEach visit builds on the last. You'll receive a home exercise program and clear milestones to track progress.
Patient Stories
What Patients Are Saying
"Dr. Cody is an absolute pleasure to work with. He was able to assess and address my needs without a ton of unnecessary visits. My goal was to get back in the gym without pain and he did just that. He is very insightful, used new technology to assess, and I loved the mobility aspect with easy home exercises. I would definitely recommend Dr. Cody for not only back pain, but hip and pelvic mobility issues contributing to back pain."
"I have been going to a chiropractor off and on since I was 16 years old. For the first time I have found a chiropractor who listens to my concerns, established a relationship and understanding of what my goals are and has met them. Cody does a great job coaching me to understand what I can do on my own through exercises that help me get better each day. So my treatments aren't just temporary they are actively improving my overall health. Highly recommend!"
"The best chiropractor in all the suburbs. He is straight forward with a plan, is up front with costs, and always up to date with insurance. I came in with shoulder problems, he developed a plan, and I couldn't be happier with progress. Don't waste your time and money with other chiropractors, go to Function!"
Curious If Dry Needling Is Right for You?
The first step isn't a needle — it's a conversation and a complete assessment. Dr. Cody evaluates your specific muscle patterns, movement limitations, and history before recommending any treatment. You'll leave knowing exactly what's going on and what a realistic plan looks like.
Book Your Evaluation