Acupuncture & Dry Needling at Fixen Chiropractic

Acupuncture and dry needling are therapeutic techniques that support the body’s natural ability to regulate, recover, and restore balance. At Fixen Chiropractic in Marshall, MN, we offer both acupuncture and dry needling as part of a personalized, integrative approach to care—helping patients address pain, tension, and internal imbalances with thoughtful, evidence-informed support.

We proudly serve patients from Marshall, Slayton, Minneota, and surrounding Southwest Minnesota communities, providing care that is tailored, professional, and focused on your individual needs and goals

Which Needling Technique is Right for You?

What Is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a practice rooted in traditional East Asian medicine that involves the insertion of very fine, sterile needles at specific points on the body. These points are chosen to support balance within the nervous system and internal body systems.

Acupuncture is commonly used to support:

Stress and nervous system regulation
Headaches and migraines
Digestive discomfort
Hormonal balance and cycle support
Sleep concerns and fatigue
Overall wellness and internal balance

In our clinic, acupuncture is used as a supportive therapy and may be incorporated alongside chiropractic care and other services to address both internal and physical contributors to health.

What Is
Dry Needling?

Dry needling is a modern, evidence-based technique used to address musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. It involves placing thin needles directly into muscle trigger points or areas of tightness to help reduce tension, improve mobility, and support neuromuscular function.

Dry needling is commonly used to support:

Muscle tightness and trigger points
Sports and activity-related injuries
Neck, back, shoulder, hip, and knee pain
Post-surgical or overuse muscle dysfunction
Headaches related to muscle tension

While dry needling uses similar tools to acupuncture, it is based on Western anatomical and neurological principles and is specifically focused on the musculoskeletal system.

Conditions People Commonly Seek These Therapies For

Patients often seek acupuncture or dry needling to support concerns such as:

Back and neck pain
Sciatic nerve irritation
Headaches and migraines
Muscle tension and restricted movement
Stress, anxiety, and nervous system overload
Digestive or hormonal concerns
Athletic recovery and overuse injuries

Care is always individualized and adapted based on your understanding, comfort level, and response to treatment.

Acupuncture vs. Dry Needling:
What’s the Difference?

Although both therapies use fine needles, their purpose and application differ:

Acupuncture focuses on internal balance, nervous system regulation, and whole-body wellness
Dry needling focuses on muscle function, trigger points, and movement-related pain

Your provider will help determine which approach—or combination of approaches—is best suited to your goals, symptoms, and overall care plan.

What to Expect During Your Visit

Your first visit begins with a thorough conversation about your health history, concerns, and goals. Your provider will explain the recommended approach, what the session will involve, and answer any questions you may have before beginning treatment.

Sessions are designed to be comfortable, professional, and collaborative. Many patients describe acupuncture and dry needling as relaxing, with sensations that range from mild pressure to gentle release.

Our Providers & Experience

Several of our chiropractors are trained in acupuncture and dry needling and use these therapies as part of comprehensive, integrative care plans. Treatments are always performed by licensed professionals with advanced training and a strong focus on patient comfort and education.