What is a key characteristic of the needle used in dry needling?

The needle used in dry needling is characterized by being a thin filiform needle, which is designed to penetrate muscle tissue effectively without causing significant trauma. These filiform needles are typically solid and do not have a lumen, which means they do not carry or inject fluid. This design is essential in dry needling as it allows for precise targeting of myofascial trigger points, contributing to muscle relaxation and pain relief without the concerns associated with larger or hollow needles, such as increased tissue damage or discomfort.

Other options describe needle types that are not used in dry needling. Thick hollow needles may be used in other medical procedures, such as injections, but they are not suitable for the specifics of dry needling, where the aim is to manipulate muscle tissue with minimal intrusion. Blunt-tipped needles would not be effective for the purpose of inserting into muscle fibers for treatment. Curved needles, while useful in certain applications, do not align with the need for straight access to trigger points in dry needling. Therefore, the use of a thin filiform needle is the most appropriate choice for the practice.