Acupuncture for Muscle Knots
Acupuncture for Muscle Knots
Table of Contents
What Are Muscle Knots?
Muscle knots are spots in your muscles that feel too tight or kind of stuck. Even when you’re resting, these areas stay tense instead of relaxing like they should. If you press on one, it might feel like a small lump or bump under the skin – some are close to the surface, others are deeper.
They’re pretty common and can show up in different parts of the body. People often notice them when a muscle feels stiff or just doesn’t move as easily. Think of them as little knots your muscles tie up on their own.
What Causes Muscle Knots?
- Bad posture. Hanging out in the same bad position for too long (like sitting at a desk) makes your muscles work harder than they should.
- Doing too much of one thing. Repeating the same motions, like typing or lifting stuff, can wear your muscles out and cause them to tense up.
- Not moving enough. Sitting still for hours without stretching or moving around can make muscles tight.
- Stress. When you’re stressed too much or for too long, your muscles clench – especially in your shoulders, neck, or jaw. That tension can turn into knots.
- Minor injuries. Even small pulls or tweaks can cause muscles to tighten up and “lock” into a knot to protect the area.
- Not enough water or good food. Muscles need fuel and hydration. If you’re low on either, they can get tight.
If You Are Worried About Muscle Knots, Make an Appointment With Us!
What are the Symptoms of Muscle Knots, and What Do They Feel Like?
Muscle knots feel like little tight spots or lumps in your muscles – like a small ball under the skin. You might notice them when a certain area won’t relax, or when touching it makes you say “ouch.” They can feel sore, achy, or annoying. Sometimes the pain stays in one place, sometimes it spreads somewhere else, like a knot in your shoulder causing pain in your arm or head.
Here are some common symptoms:
- A deep, usually persistent ache in the muscle.
- Painful feelings when you press on it.
- Tightness that makes it harder to move normally.
- A stiff or “locked up” feeling in the area.
- In some cases, you may feel like something is twitching.
Does Acupuncture Work for Muscle Knots?
When a needle goes into a tight, knotted area, it often makes the muscle twitch a little. That twitch isn’t random – it’s a natural response that helps the muscle let go of all that built-up tension. It’s like when you press a button to reset your phone, but for muscles.
The needle also causes a tiny bit of controlled damage (don’t worry, you won’t feel it much), which gets your body to send more blood to the area. That extra circulation brings oxygen and nutrients that help calm inflammation and “repair” the tissue. It gives your body what it needs to heal that spot faster.
Plus, acupuncture helps your brain release endorphins – feel-good chemicals that ease pain and boost your mood. The treatment seems simple, yet it’s doing a lot behind the scenes to help you feel better.
Benefits of Acupuncture for Muscle Knots
- Relaxing muscles. A tiny needle can make a knotted muscle twitch and finally let go of all built-up tightness.
- Gets blood flowing. More blood circulation means your body sends in fresh oxygen and nutrients to start the healing process.
- Calms inflammation. Helps clear out stuff in the muscle that causes swelling, soreness, and stiffness.
- Helps you heal faster. The needle creates a micro-injury which sends a signal that tells your body, “Hey, fix this!”
- Helps with pain. Triggers your brain to release natural pain-relieving chemicals (endorphins), which also help you relax and feel better overall.
- Makes it easier to move. When the muscle relaxes, you can move better and easier.
- Treating and prevention. Works on both the muscle knot and the deeper reasons your body keeps making them.
- No meds needed. It’s a natural option that doesn’t rely on pills or harsh treatments.
Acupuncture vs Other Treatments for Muscle Knots
Here’s how acupuncture and muscle knots compare to some of the most common options:
- Massage therapy can feel very good because it relaxes muscles by working on them directly. But sometimes, the same knots come back because the deeper cause isn’t being handled. Acupuncture doesn’t just relax the spot – it also helps your body calm down the nerve signals that keep the muscle tight in the first place.
- Physical therapy is great for building strength and fixing movement habits that might be causing the knots, like moving or sitting incorrectly. It’s more of a long-term help. Muscle knots and acupuncture can give faster pain relief while physical therapy helps keep the problem from coming back.
- Foam rolling or self-massage can help when you’re sore, but it’s hard to reach deep knots or the exact trigger point. A needle goes straight to the source, even if it’s buried under layers of muscle.
- Pain meds can help feel better, but they don’t do much to fix the problem itself. Acupuncture actually helps the muscle release and heal.
Acupuncture for Muscle Knots at Pulse Acupuncture
If you’re dealing with muscle knots that won’t go away, Pulse Acupuncture might be exactly what you need to finally relax. With locations in Clifton, NJ and Williamsburg, Brooklyn, Marina Doktorman, L.Ac. offers safe acupuncture for muscle knots that helps your body release tension and feel better. The sessions are personalized and all about your body and needs without any generic solutions.
She also works with people dealing with other common concerns – like acupuncture for acne, acupuncture for anxiety, acupuncture for acid reflux, and even acupuncture for high blood pressure. You’re in good hands no matter what you’re coming in for.
If you’re looking for acupuncture in Williamsburg, Brooklyn or Clifton, NJ, Pulse Acupuncture is a perfect place to experience result-driven acupuncture to release muscle knots in a relaxed place where practitioners listen to you and your concerns.
Why Pulse Acupuncture?
Experience
Marina Doktorman, L.Ac. has over 20 years of clinical experience.
RELAXATION
At Pulse Acupuncture, we aim to cultivate a spa-like environment.
Comfort
All of our needles are of the highest quality for painless insertion.
Patient Reviews
My experience with Marina's work has been incredible. After the first few sessions, I immediately noticed a decrease in my endometriosis symptoms. I also struggle with CPTSD and anxiety-- and have felt extremely lighter since seeing her. She is thorough and knows what she is doing. I go twice a week and will eventually start tapering my sessions, but think it is imperative to go often when first starting out. I am addicted to her practice and cannot recommend her more!
I am extremely particular with massages and the massage therapist name Inna at Pulse Acupuncture is absolutely incredible. She is intuitive, skillful, informative and has great bedside manners. The best massage I've experienced in NYC. I highly recommend Inna.
I had been struggling with persistent back pain and frequent migraines that significantly impacted my daily life. After trying various treatments with limited success, I turned to acupuncture and began sessions with Dr. Marina. Her attentive and knowledgeable approach immediately put me at ease. Through her expert care, I experienced a remarkable reduction in both my back pain and migraine frequency. Dr. Marina's dedication and skill have truly made a positive difference in my well-being, and I wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone seeking relief through acupuncture.
Dr.Marina has helped me multiple times, every time I go to her with a goal to improve my health or whatever aliment I am dealing with, she always helps alleviate it. She’s helped balance my hormones, helped me with a spell of insomnia etc. she really is so amazing and I will continue to go to her because she truly knows what she is doing! If you have any issue, I think dr.marina can help in her practice, she really is amazing and I’m so thankful for her!
Marina is a well-trained and talented therapist. I see her in her Clifton, NJ, office. Parking is always adequate. Several therapy rooms are available; they are comfortable and well-eqipped. I find Marina to be empathetic, a good listener, and a good diagnostician.She draws on her extensive knowledge and experience to tailor-make each treatment to alleviate the ailments presented. I find Marina's acupuncture skills to be effective. I look forward to our sessions and I highly recommend her!
Amazing experience! Marina is knowledgeable and professional. She has created a very relaxing vibe in her studio that makes the appointment feel like amazing self care. I’m 40 weeks + 3 days pregnant and felt very comfortable with the table set up and also trusted that she knew what she was doing.
Such a soothing environment and Marina is very professional. She explains everything that she is going to do. While I know I need more sessions, I noticed today that I was already able to walk further than before with significantly less pain after the 1st session. What a blessing!!
Marina has been treating me in Clifton for about 6 months for chronic pain. I must say she is extremely knowledgeable and has helped to quiet my deep muscle spasms. As an unexpected bonus, the acupuncture had also helped muscle atrophy from a surgery I had over 12 years ago.
Marina is very accommodating, kind, and attentive, and her staff is a pleasure to deal with. I highly recommend Pulse.
Marina is very accommodating, kind, and attentive, and her staff is a pleasure to deal with. I highly recommend Pulse.
My experience was phenomenal, I had fire cupping done for the first time, an absolute life changing experience. 🙌
The session was great. I’m dealing with sciatica issues and during one session I was able to receive full body acupuncture, cupping , electro pulse therapy and a stress reading. All very helpful for my pain. Highly recommend.
I love Marina and her team. I have been struggling with feeling nauseous and fatigue after going through an IVF cycle and going twice a week has been working wonders for me. It’s literally the difference between being able to function and not function in life. I can’t recommend Pulse enough!
Exceptional service. Clean and calming rooms. Easy billing/insurance process. Would recommend!
Best Accupuncture in Williamsburg! Marina Laryssa are fantastic. Helped relieve pain for my marathon preparation assisting with Plantar fasciitis ITBs and stress. Great experience, very friendly, would highly recommend visiting them.
I have been very happy with the services of Pulse Acupuncture, the pain I have has greatly decreased with the Acupuncture.
Laryssa was fantastic. i can’t ever remember a provider taking the time and attention to my specific issues. highly recommend!
Marina is very professional, caring and extremely knowledgable. The office is peaceful and welcoming. I highly recommend Pulse Acupuncture for holistic care.
Laryssa is very empathetic and clearly cares about her patients. She’s passionate about her job and wants her patients to feel better. I’ve been seen by Marina a couple of times when Laryssa wasn’t there and I can say the same for her. Overall I highly recommend this acupuncture office.
I have been doing acupuncture consistently for 3.5 years, started with Marina almost 3 years ago and also started seeing Larissa this last year.
Acupuncture has truly changed my life and has helped me in ways I didn’t even know were possible.
I started doing acupuncture to balance my hormones after 2 years of unsuccessful fertility treatments. When I started seeing Marina, my periods were starting to be regular and I was dealing with a few different symptoms which we started treating right away (constipation, random headaches, body aches)… in the last 3 years I have not been sick (no flu, have never tested positive for COVID) - Marina even treated me for allergies more than a year ago during an allergy episode in changing seasons.
Also want to mention Larissa as I started seeing her in Marina’s beautiful office and she’s also contributed to my wellness journey. Acupuncture is my favorite wellness practice, I see them regularly and have never felt better. I sometimes just tell them whatever I’m thinking/feeling knowing they will stick some needles in different places of my body and I come out floating and feeling so relaxed.
Acupuncture has truly changed my life and has helped me in ways I didn’t even know were possible.
I started doing acupuncture to balance my hormones after 2 years of unsuccessful fertility treatments. When I started seeing Marina, my periods were starting to be regular and I was dealing with a few different symptoms which we started treating right away (constipation, random headaches, body aches)… in the last 3 years I have not been sick (no flu, have never tested positive for COVID) - Marina even treated me for allergies more than a year ago during an allergy episode in changing seasons.
Also want to mention Larissa as I started seeing her in Marina’s beautiful office and she’s also contributed to my wellness journey. Acupuncture is my favorite wellness practice, I see them regularly and have never felt better. I sometimes just tell them whatever I’m thinking/feeling knowing they will stick some needles in different places of my body and I come out floating and feeling so relaxed.
Marina is the most qualified acupuncture specialist I've ever worked with. I recommend her highly.
My symptoms have improved dramatically after just 3 sessions! She’s talented and kind, and uses various techniques that really make me feel like she’s taking a holistic approach to my health and emotional wellbeing. Cannot recommend her enough!
Jaesung Kim- a welcome addition to the team- simply incredible !
Excellent service- great results- highly recommended ~!
Excellent service- great results- highly recommended ~!
I've had several sessions with Marina and have had a great experience. I feel relaxed every time a session is over. I recommend trying Pulse out!
I visited Marina for back pain and digestive issues. My whole experience was positive. She is patient, empathetic, and very talented and knowledgeable. She used multiple modalities on my body (front and back) to address my concerns and treat the whole body rather than one part. I have been returning each week and I feel so good after.
Dr Marina is very best to find cure for your aches and pains. She tailors treatment with modalities that fit individual's ailments. You will get relief.
My partner and I have been seeing Marina for the past year now, and it's been a game changer for my health (anything from back pain to allergies). Since starting treatment all these conditions have become so much more manageable.
Marina is not only incredibly knowledgeable, but also very calming and has great bedside manners. If you're looking for a fantastic acupuncturist I can't recommend her enough!!
Marina is not only incredibly knowledgeable, but also very calming and has great bedside manners. If you're looking for a fantastic acupuncturist I can't recommend her enough!!
Marina is so thoughtful and attentive. I have been seeing her regularly for months now and my quality of life is so much better. She’ll listen to what you’re struggling with and give you a really customized session where you walk out the door feeling amazing. Don’t be scared of the needles, it doesn’t hurt!
Highly professional and knowledgeable technician who explains as she goes so there are no surprises. Knows a variety of techniques to provide some of the best care possible. Highly recommended.
Best place to be in new Jersey hands down and yes to recovery. State of the art equipment, advanced training staff awarding with convenient scheduling.
Marina and Pulse Acupuncture have given me outstanding wellness care-helping me through pain issues in my left arm and back- giving me relief before and after my knee replacement surgery - Outstanding care and deeply personal individual attraction
Highly recommend Pulse for acupuncture. Very peaceful atmosphere and effective treatment. I am new to treatment and left my sessions incredibly relaxed and recharged. I felt significant relief in the area I was experiencing dull, recurring pain. Will be going regularly now!
Dr. Marina Doktorman is sweet and amazing at what she does. I feel very comfortable with her and her practice is very clean and spa-like. I’ve been coming weekly for a month and noticed changes in my wellbeing. Using acupuncture she’s able to regulate my hormones, unblock my chakras, and overall improve my wellbeing. I love it and will continue weekly or biweekly treatments as long as my insurance is covered. I highly recommend her to anyone who is new to it or interested in acupuncture treatment. It’s very calming and relaxing!
Marina is the best acupuncturist I’ve been to. Expect a full service experience that changes with your needs whether you express them or aren’t sure what you need that day. (Marina is super intuitive and adjusts treatment accordingly!) Highly recommend going here, you’ll feel better mentally and physically as soon as you’re walking out!
Highly recommend! I have been to quite a few acupuncturists over the years and Pulse is by far my favorite and the most attentive. It is a full service of treating my back, front body and cupping (it does not feel rushed). I suffer from chronic neck pain from an old injury and go for postpartum symptoms relief. I always feel better after leaving. The office is beautiful and calming as well.
Marina relieved my back pain after just a couple of visits. I had been suffering for months and her method of treatments proved to be successful. As a doctor myself I can say that she has great bedside manner as well.
Marina is a great acupuncturist. She is very gentle, professional and caring. I’ve been seeing her on a weekly basis for over a month now to deal with severe fatigue and stress, and in no time the sessions have taken effect. I feel more centered, calm and filled of positive energy. I no longer suffer from insomnia, dizziness or intense anxiety. The practice where she receive appointments in Williamsburg is very nice, clean and comfortable that makes sessions very pleasant and relaxing. I’m very grateful to Marina for her care. Finally, she is very flexible for appointments and can even see a patient in the evening which is very convenient. I highly recommend her.
To understand what I'm talking about, you have to try it for yourself.
After 10 minutes of the procedure, you get into a different reality. Marina is knowledgeable, answers all the questions. After the procedure, the skin of the face glows, the body becomes lighter by a couple of pounds. I've been looking for such a procedure and state of mind for a long time.
After 10 minutes of the procedure, you get into a different reality. Marina is knowledgeable, answers all the questions. After the procedure, the skin of the face glows, the body becomes lighter by a couple of pounds. I've been looking for such a procedure and state of mind for a long time.
Pulse Acupuncture is exactly what I’ve been looking for to treat my migraines! Marina is knowledgeable, professional, asks probing questions and does fire cupping! She also has a very serene and clean office that makes me feel so relaxed and I never feel rushed during my sessions. Marina is truly incredible - her treatments help me mitigate migraines and I highly recommend her for any acupuncture/holistic health needs!! (I’ve tried other practitioners in the area and none have compared to Marina’s experience and professionalism.)
I used acupuncture for low back and SI joint pain. I have a chronic condition. After the 1st treatment pain reduced by 75%. I am very happy with the results. I'm coming back. Thank you!
I found Marina while I was experiencing horrible lower back pain and her treatments got me back to my normal self quickly. Her office is beautiful, clean and welcoming. I will be going back regularly for routine maintenance and stress relief.
Very happy that my friend recommended Pulse Acupuncture Williamsburg Brooklyn to me! Marina Doktorman is such a professional acupuncturist! It was my first time trying acupuncture and I fell in love with it, I felt younger and lighter after my acupuncture session! I recommend to everyone!!!
Marina healed me with the best acupuncture in Williamsburg. My shoulders and traps was intensely in pain to the point it gave me a headache but Pulse Acupuncture relieved my pain. Marina's technique is so effective and relaxing. The space is also beautiful and luxurious and you can also get a massage with Maria who's also AMAZING. I highly recommend Pulse Acupuncture in Williamsburg 🙂
Marina Doktorman is very knowledgeable, skilled, and caring, with many years of experience. Excellent location. Beautiful brand new office.
Super pleased with my first appointment. Marina is very kind, knowledgeable and professional. Highly recommend.
When I first came to Marina, I felt constant pressure in my lower back, tension in my upper back and lack of energy. During the first session I could literally feel something shifting inside in those areas she was working on. Her touch was so gentle that I didn’t even feel the needles go in. The time stopped, I was relaxed, calm and peaceful. Besides acupuncture I had some cupping done as well. The cups relieved a great deal of pressure from my upper and lower back. After the session I immediately felt the effect. Have my next session scheduled for next week. I would definitely recommend Marina to those seeking holistic ways to deal with muscle, spine, and pain issues. She is a miracle worker!
I felt relief after the first session with Marina Doktorman. Marina is a caring practitioner that establishes a connection with her clients and always ensures a comfortable environment. After doing acupuncture, heat therapy, and cupping with her, I felt instant relief and relaxation. In addition, Marina’s treatment helped me feel relief from neck and back pain, as well as to feel grounded and connected to my body. I would highly recommend Marina to anyone.
Excellent service, very knowledgeable and professional. They helped me a lot. Strongly recommend. Went to other offices, but this one is truly the best!
I’m getting acupuncture for allergies and impressed by the results! I’m no longer congested, no teary eyes. It’s just incredible! Im used to getting allergy shots before. No more. It’s unbelievable! The treatment is relaxing and very effective! My headaches are gone too! I really recommend Marina Doktorman at Pulse Acupuncture!
I was treated by Marina at Williamsburg location. After I sprained my ankle I decided to try acupuncture to help with bruising, swelling, and pain. The results were fascinating! The bruising and swelling almost went away!!! I am very very satisfied with the treatment! Marina is very knowledgeable, experienced and has an amazing energy! Will definitely be back!!
I’ve had great acupuncture experience at Pulse Acupuncture. Marina was able to fix my neck strain in just one treatment. It was not painful and actually very relaxing. Cupping and massage followed after acupuncture session. This was the most relief I’ve had in a long time. Loved the healing vibe of this beautiful studio.
I recently visited Pulse Acupuncture to seek relief for my lower back pain, and I am thrilled with the results I achieved through Marina's skillful treatment. After just a few sessions, I noticed a significant improvement in my pain levels and overall mobility.
I am beyond grateful to Marina, because after trying so many things, I almost lost hope. highly recommend Pulse Acupuncture and Marina for anyone seeking relief from pain or other health concerns.
I am beyond grateful to Marina, because after trying so many things, I almost lost hope. highly recommend Pulse Acupuncture and Marina for anyone seeking relief from pain or other health concerns.
I have been visiting Pulse Acupuncture for several months now, and I have consistently received excellent service from Marina. Her expertise in acupuncture and holistic healing is unmatched, and she always takes the time to listen to my concerns and provide personalized recommendations.
The acupuncture sessions themselves are incredibly relaxing and therapeutic. Marina's gentle touch and precise needle placement always leave me feeling calm and rejuvenated. She also incorporates other techniques, such as cupping, which have been very beneficial for my overall health and wellbeing.
In addition to her skill as an acupuncturist, Marina is also a wonderful person to work with. She is warm, friendly, and genuinely cares about her clients' wellbeing. I always leave our sessions feeling refreshed and uplifted, both physically and mentally.
Overall, I highly recommend Pulse Acupuncture and Marina for anyone looking for high-quality acupuncture and personalized care. Thank you, Marina, for your exceptional service and dedication to helping others achieve optimal health!
The acupuncture sessions themselves are incredibly relaxing and therapeutic. Marina's gentle touch and precise needle placement always leave me feeling calm and rejuvenated. She also incorporates other techniques, such as cupping, which have been very beneficial for my overall health and wellbeing.
In addition to her skill as an acupuncturist, Marina is also a wonderful person to work with. She is warm, friendly, and genuinely cares about her clients' wellbeing. I always leave our sessions feeling refreshed and uplifted, both physically and mentally.
Overall, I highly recommend Pulse Acupuncture and Marina for anyone looking for high-quality acupuncture and personalized care. Thank you, Marina, for your exceptional service and dedication to helping others achieve optimal health!
Acupuncture for Muscle Knots - FAQ
What are Muscle Knots, and How Do They Affect the Body?
Muscle knots, or myofascial trigger points, are tight, contracted areas within muscle tissue that can cause pain, discomfort, and restricted movement. These knots can form due to factors like poor posture, stress, repetitive motions, or muscle overuse. They may radiate pain to surrounding areas and lead to stiffness.
How Does Acupuncture Help With Muscle Knots?
Acupuncture helps release muscle knots by stimulating specific points along the body’s energy pathways (meridians). By inserting fine needles into these acupuncture points, the treatment encourages blood flow, relaxes the muscle fibers, and triggers the release of endorphins, which are the body’s natural pain relievers. This process helps to relieve tension, reduce pain, and improve muscle function.
Is Acupuncture Effective for Treating Muscle Knots?
Yes, acupuncture can be highly effective in treating muscle knots. Studies suggest that acupuncture helps alleviate pain and muscle tension by enhancing circulation, reducing inflammation, and promoting the body’s natural healing processes. It often provides relief where traditional methods like massage or stretching may not fully address the issue.
Are There Any Side Effects to Acupuncture for Muscle Knots?
Acupuncture is generally safe with minimal side effects. Some people may experience mild bruising, soreness, or a sensation of lightheadedness after a session. These effects are typically temporary and subside within a few hours. It’s important to consult with a licensed acupuncturist to ensure safe and appropriate treatment.
Contact us
Acupuncture therapy at Pulse Acupuncture Practice, at Clifton, NJ and Williamsburg, Brooklyn, NYC offers unique combination of various cupuncture types for healing on all levels: emotional, spiritual and physical by integrating ancient wisdom of energy healing with modern acupuncture techniques.