I have suffered for many years with arthritis, fibromyalgia and debilitating back pain from spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease and scoliosis. I could find little relief from the constant pain until I was referred to Tracey Adler at Orthopedic Physical Therapy in Richmond, VA.  The first time I went to have dry needling done I was apprehensive yet hopeful that I might get some relief from my intense pain. It was the most amazing experience of my life. During my appointment Tracey Adler inserted needles deep into my muscles and worked on the knots until they released. I could actually see the muscle slide under my skin back into a relaxed state. I am convinced the practice of this therapy could be harmful in untrained hands, but in the hands of highly trained professionals like the therapists at Orthopedic Physical Therapy it is a life changing treatment. I truly do not know what I would do without this type of medical treatment being available. I fervently ask that you not only recognize the value of this kind of physical therapy treatment, but also distinguish the difference between it and acupuncture. In addition I ask that you also recognize the necessity of highly specialized training in order to perform this kind of therapy safely and correctly. I would be happy to answer any questions regarding the effectiveness of dry needling for me to anyone who would like to contact me.