Trigger Point Acupuncture

Trigger Point Acupuncture in Denver

Unlock deep, lasting relief from pain, improve mobility, and enhance your body’s natural healing with our specialized Trigger Point Acupuncture service.

Trigger Point Acupuncture blends Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) with modern muscle science. Instead of broad meridian maps, we target tight, sensitive “trigger points” that:

• Refer pain to other areas
• Limit your range of motion
• Keep you stuck in a cycle of discomfort

By gently inserting ultra thin, sterile needles into these points, we:

• Interrupt pain signals, breaking chronic neural loops
• Release muscle knots, allowing fibers to lengthen and blood to flow freely
• Stimulate healing, triggering local immune and repair responses

This targeted fusion of ancient wisdom and modern anatomy brings relief faster and lasts longer than massage or stretching alone.

Initial Assessment

• Intake & Goals: We review your health history, current symptoms, lifestyle, and wellness objectives.
• Physical Exam: We locate active trigger points, check posture, and test your range of motion.

Precise Needling

• Point Selection: Using anatomy and palpation, we choose the exact spots.
• Gentle Insertion: Single use, ultra fine needles are placed at varying depths to engage tight muscle tissue.

Twitch Activation

A brief muscle “twitch” confirms effective placement, helping reset abnormal tone and release tension.

Needle Retention & Support

• Needles remain in place for 10–20 minutes to allow mechanical and biochemical shifts.
• Optional mild electrical stimulation or manual techniques can boost circulation and endorphin release.

Integration & Aftercare

After removing needles, we perform a light massage, then provide personalized stretches, hydration tips, and lifestyle tweaks so your results last.

Fast, Lasting Pain Relief

Targets the root of muscle based pain cycles and boosts your body’s natural analgesics.

Improved Mobility & Flexibility

Releases tight fibers and flushes out metabolic byproducts.

Accelerated Healing

Micro trauma from needles speeds blood flow and tissue repair.

Stress Reduction & Well Being

Activates your parasympathetic (“rest and digest”) system for better sleep and mood.

Performance Enhancement

Prepares muscles before activity and eases post event soreness for faster recovery.

Trigger Point Acupuncture

• Origins & Training: Conducted by licensed acupuncturists (NCCAOM®) trained in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Western anatomy.
• Theory: Focuses on meridians, Qi flow, and trigger point anatomy.
• Technique: Utilizes TCM channels and anatomy; may include optional manual or electrical work.
• Scope: Provides holistic benefits, offering both local relief and systemic balance.
• Environment: Typically performed in a calm, spa-like setting.
• Ideal For: Suitable for a mind-body-spirit approach, stress relief, and overall wellness.

Dry Needling

• Origins & Training: Administered by physical therapists (PT) or chiropractors with dry needling certification.
• Theory: Based on Western muscle physiology and pain neuroscience.
• Technique: Involves direct “pistoning” into muscle knots to elicit twitches and release tension.
• Scope: Primarily targets local muscle knots and integrates with rehabilitation exercises.
• Environment: Conducted in a clinical, rehab-focused setting.
• Ideal For: Effective for athletes undergoing structured rehab or performance enhancement programs.

Which Should You Choose?

• Trigger Point Acupuncture is ideal if you want a holistic, whole body treatment that balances pain relief with stress reduction and overall wellness.
• Dry Needling may fit if you’re already in a structured physical therapy program focused on precise muscle release and exercise progression.

At Denver Sports Massage, Dr. Taves works closely with our massage and rehab teams—so you can seamlessly integrate or transition between both modalities.

• Neck & Shoulder Tension (tech neck, headaches, frozen shoulder)
• Back Pain (low back strain, sciatica, postural issues)
• Elbow & Wrist Discomfort (tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, carpal tunnel)
• Hip & Leg Issues (IT band syndrome, piriformis, plantar fasciitis)
• Sports Injuries (sprains, strains, overuse ailments)
• Stress Related Muscle Tightness (TMJ, general tension)

Expert Acupuncture

Dr. Ryan Taves is our sole acupuncturist—NCCAOM® boarded with a TCM doctorate, BA in Health Psychology, plus certifications in herbal medicine, integrative health, and fitness training.

Integrated Healing

We blend acupuncture, sports massage, corrective exercises, and nutrition advice into one cohesive plan.

Comfort & Convenience

Private, heated rooms; walk ins welcome; open daily 8:45 AM–9:15 PM.

Client First Care

We listen, educate, and involve you in every step—providing self care tools and ongoing support.

Proven Results

Most clients see improvement in 1–3 sessions—just ask our 5 star reviewers!

Dr. Ryan Taves, D.Ac, L.Ac, Dipl. Ac. (NCCAOM)®

• Doctorate in Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine
• BA in Health Psychology; certified in herbal medicine, integrative health, and personal fitness training
• Martial artist since age 8—bringing discipline and resilience to every treatment

Dr. Taves overcame childhood health challenges through alternative medicine and now combines TCM with Western anatomy to craft mind body spirit treatments that empower you with education and self care strategies.

Warm Welcome & Intake

Brief digital form + discussion of your history and goals.

Movement & Palpation

Locate trigger points, assess posture, test mobility.

Comfortable Positioning

Heated table, pillows, and blankets for support.

Gentle Needling

Ultra fine needles inserted with minimal sensation.

Relaxation & Integration

10–20 minutes of rest to soft music + light massage.

Aftercare Guidance

Custom stretches, hydration tips, and lifestyle recommendations.

Safety & Hygiene

• FDA approved, single use needles
• Rigorous sanitization of rooms and high touch surfaces
• Open communication—your comfort is our priority

Frequently Asked Questions

Will it hurt?

Most feel only mild pressure or tingling. A quick “twitch” may feel like a tiny muscle flick.

How many sessions do I need?

Many clients find relief after one visit; chronic issues typically require 3–6 sessions, spaced 1–2 weeks apart.

Can I combine this with massage?

Yes—pairing acupuncture with our sports massage often boosts results.

Any side effects?

Rare bruising or mild soreness may occur, signaling your body’s healing response.

Do you accept insurance?

We’re out-of network and offer superbills for out of network reimbursement. Contact us for details.

Invest in your health, performance, and well being. Experience the precise, holistic power of Trigger Point Acupuncture at Denver Sports Massage—where expert care meets compassionate service. We look forward to helping you feel your very best.

Contact us today to book your appointment, call 303-630-9603 or fill out our online form and discover how we can help you achieve your health and performance goals with this powerful, time-tested treatment method.