Is Dry Needling Safe for Kids and Teens?
Dry needling is becoming increasingly popular for athletic recovery and pain relief — but what about younger athletes? As more kids and teens get involved in competitive sports, parents are asking whether this treatment is appropriate for their age group. At OC Well Studio, we provide performance and recovery services for teen athletes — and we also partner with physical therapists looking for experienced dry-needling providers in Orange County.
What is dry needling — and how does it differ from acupuncture?
Dry needling uses thin, sterile filiform needles to target muscular trigger points — tight bands of muscle fibers that are over-worked, fatigued, or injured. The goal is to release muscle tension, restore normal length-tension relationships, improve local blood flow, and help the nervous system reset. Unlike traditional acupuncture, the focus is often biomechanical (muscle release) rather than purely energetic.When It May Be Appropriate
For teen athletes, especially those dealing with chronic tightness, repetitive strain, or sports-related injuries, dry needling can be a safe and effective option when performed by a licensed and experienced practitioner. At OC Well Studio, our providers are both chiropractors and acupuncturists, certified in dry needling — a unique combination that ensures a safe, evidence-informed approach.
For younger children, we take a more conservative route. Their nervous systems are still developing, and in most cases, gentler modalities such as soft tissue therapy, cupping, or acupuncture without deep muscle stimulation are preferred.
Is it safe for kids and teens?
In most teen athletes, yes — when performed by a qualified, licensed practitioner (like Tara, your chiropractor/acupuncturist at OC Well Studio) and when the athlete’s condition, maturity level, and anatomy are taken into account. We modify technique, needle depth and number of insertions accordingly.
For younger children (pre-adolescents) we exercise more caution. Because their neuromuscular systems are still developing, and because fear/anxiety may impact their response, gentler options (soft-tissue mobilization, modified acupuncture, stretching, strength work) may be preferred.
Why a physical therapist might refer to OC Well Studio
If you’re a physical therapist in Newport Beach, Costa Mesa or the surrounding area with teen athletes recovering from sports such as:
Football (Newport Harbor HS, Costa Mesa HS)
Basketball, volleyball, soccer
Swimming, surfing/bodyboarding (West Newport/Corona del Mar region)
Track & field or cross-country
… and you’re seeking a practitioner skilled in dry needling who can collaborate with you on a plan, OC Well Studio is ideal. We offer:
A licensed chiropractor/acupuncturist certified in dry needling — meaning integrated structural + muscle + recovery care.
A clinic located at 1501 Westcliff Dr (easy access for local PTs, parents, athletes) in Newport Beach.
Clear, evidence-informed protocols for teen athlete recovery, return-to-play support, muscular imbalance correction, and performance optimization.
Communication openness and willingness to coordinate with therapists, coaches and families.
What to watch out for & contraindications
Avoid in presence of uncontrolled bleeding disorders, significant needle phobia, or severe skin infections.
Post-treatment, ensure proper recovery: hydration, rest, soft tissue work, and gradual return to sport.
Benefits for teen athletes in the Newport Beach / Orange County region
Accelerated recovery after intense practices (surfing sessions, football games, volleyball tournaments)
Improved muscle function and flexibility — lowering risk of overuse injuries common in competitive teens.
Better movement quality, fewer trigger-point-related aches that can lead to delayed performance or missed practice time.
Supports overall athlete wellness: less downtime means more practice, better adaptation, fewer limitations.
Why parents in Newport Beach trust OC Well Studio
Tara brings 14 years of experience treating athletic populations and teens — not just general practice but performance-oriented care.
Our approach focuses on pain relief and improved function (not spinal “realignment” narratives) which resonates with sporty teens and active families.
Located near Westcliff Drive in Newport Beach, it’s convenient for families in Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, Irvine, Laguna Beach, Huntington Beach and surrounding neighborhoods.
Ready to help your teen optimize their recovery from sports injuries and musculoskeletal pain? Book a Visit today.