The Missing Link in Pelvic Pain Recovery.

Pelvic Floor Dry Needling

Direct, neuro-functional release for the muscles standard Physical Therapy cannot fully resolve.

The Procedure Few Practitioners Can Perform.

If you are reading this, you have likely already seen a urologist or gynecologist, and perhaps a pelvic floor physical therapist. You have done the breathing exercises. You have done the internal trigger point release. But the deep ache, the urgency, or the tension remains.

This is where we step in.

Pelvic Floor Dry Needling is a highly specialized, advanced intervention that targets the deep musculature of the pelvic basin. It is the most direct way to "reset" a hypertonic (tight) pelvic floor.

In New York City, there are thousands of acupuncturists, There is only a handful certified to perform this specific technique. Dr. Barber is one of them.

pelvic floor dry needling

Conditions We Treat With This Protocol

This is the "Game Changer" treatment for complex conditions where standard care stalls:

For Males

For Females

  • Vaginismus & Vulvodynia: Resetting the involuntary guarding reflex and nervous system signaling.
  • Endometriosis: Pelvic pain and muscle tension associated with endometriosis and related surgery.
  • Uterine Fibroids: Pelvic pain, pressure, or muscle tension associated with uterine fibroids

For Everyone

  • Pudendal Neuralgia: Perhaps the most effective non-surgical treatment for nerve entrapment and sitting intolerance.
  • Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (CPPS): Persistent pelvic pain, aching, pressure or ‘deep tension’ in the pelvic region that isn’t resolving with standard care.
  • Coccydynia (Tailbone Pain): Releasing the muscles pulling on the tailbone to restore sitting comfort.
  • Urgency/Frequency: Releasing the muscles compressing the bladder neck and calming the urgency signal.
low back pain treatment in NYC

Why "Manual" Release Isn't Enough

Internal physical therapy is essential, but sometimes it hits a ceiling. The fingers can only press so deep, and the pelvic floor is layered with thick fascia and nerves that are difficult to release with pressure alone.

Dry Needling changes the equation.

Holding the highest level of clinical training in the field, one of only a handful in the city, Dr. Barber bridges the gap between Eastern technique and Western biomedical diagnosis

Precision

We bypass the surface layers to reach the deep levator ani, obturator, and perineal muscles.

The Twitch

The needle elicits a localized twitch response—a spinal reflex that forces the muscle to contract and then instantly fully lengthen.

The Reset

The needle elicits a localized twitch response—a spinal reflex that forces the muscle to contract and then instantly fully lengthen.

"We are fixing the hardware problem. When the muscle physically resets, the symptoms—urgency, pain, dysfunction—often vanish." - Dr. Jordan Barber

Clinical Leadership

Dr. Jordan Barber

In a city full of generalists, results require a specialist. Dr. Jordan Barber is a recognized authority in integrative orthopedics and pelvic health, known for solving the "unsolvable" cases that standard care leaves behind.

Doctor of Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine (DAOM)

Holding the highest level of clinical training in the field, one of only a handful in the city, Dr. Barber bridges the gap between Eastern technique and Western biomedical diagnosis

Subject Matter Expert

A published researcher, author, and consultant, Dr. Barber specializes in the complex intersection of Chronic Pelvic Pain and Spinal Dysfunction.

The "Clinician's Clinician"

He is the practitioner other doctors refer to when surgery isn't an option and Physical Therapy has stalled.

I built this clinic for the patient who has heard "everything looks normal" but is still suffering. We find the dysfunction that the scans miss.

— Dr. Jordan Barber

The Experience: What to Expect

We understand this sounds intimidating. In practice, it is quick, professional, and surprisingly comfortable.

The Setup

The procedure is performed in a private, clinical setting. It is dignified and respectful.

The Sensation

You will feel a small tap as the needle enters (often painless). When we hit the trigger point, you may feel a deep ache or a "jump" in the muscle.

The Relief

Many patients feel a drop in tension immediately after the session.

The Protocol

We often combine this with Electro-Modulation to calm the nerves after the release.

Got Questions?

While acupuncture does not hurt, you may feel a “de qi” sensation—a deep, dull ache or heaviness at the point of insertion when the thin needles stimulate the connective tissue and nervous system. This is a natural and effective part of the acupuncture treatment, indicating that the acupuncture point is being activated. The patient is always in control, and most find these sensations well-tolerated or enjoyable. Schedule an Appointment or Free Phone Consultation

Most people feel a quick twitch or brief pinch during a dry needling session as the needle interacts with myofascial trigger points or muscle fibers in the affected area, but it’s usually well tolerated and any muscle soreness fades quickly—many patients say the relief is worth it. Schedule an Appointment or Free Phone Consultation

The benefits of dry needling are numerous, especially for pain management. This treatment method effectively targets myofascial trigger points within tight muscles, helping to release muscle tension, improve muscle function and range of motion, and stimulate the body’s natural healing process. It can be particularly effective for soft tissue injuries, overuse injuries, and chronic pain conditions like myofascial pain syndrome by addressing the root causes of discomfort in specific areas of the body. Many find it helps accelerate recovery time from a muscle strain or injury. Schedule an Appointment or Free Phone Consultation

This varies based on the patient’s medical history and condition, but many patients see results over time depending on their condition. Pain-related conditions often initially have quick results, though recovery time can differ. This will be discussed during the initial consultation. Schedule an Appointment or Free Phone Consultation

Yes, acupuncture and dry needling complement most standard medical treatments, including physical therapy treatments or chiropractic care, and Dr. Barber can collaborate with other healthcare providers as needed. Schedule an Appointment or Free Phone Consultation

The first acupuncture appointment or dry needling session includes a detailed initial consultation where Dr. Barber reviews the medical history, discusses specific needs and musculoskeletal condition, performs an assessment, and provides the first personalized treatment option. Schedule an Appointment or Free Phone Consultation

Yes, I treat adults, teens, and children (though I do not specialize in infants or toddlers). I’m experienced in working with sensitive issues and strive to create a welcoming, inclusive space for all patients, including those in the LGBTQIA+ community. For pelvic floor patients who are post-operative following gender-affirming surgery, I do not have specialized training in this area, but if you’re able to provide detailed surgical notes, I’m open to collaborating and finding safe, supportive treatment solutions together. Schedule an Appointment or Free Phone Consultation

Yes — we are an out-of-network provider and can submit to most PPO insurance plans. While we are not contracted with any insurance companies, we want to make it as easy as possible for you to use your benefits when available.

We do not participate with Medicare or Medicaid, including Part C out-of-network coverage.

✔ Claims Submitted on Your Behalf
We now submit out-of-network claims directly to your insurance company as a courtesy to help streamline your reimbursement process. Payment is due at the time of service, and reimbursement (if any) is sent directly to you based on your plan’s coverage.

✔ Complimentary Insurance Verification
We offer free verification of your out-of-network benefits before your first visit so you know what to expect. Please note that benefit verification is not a guarantee of coverage or payment. Click Here for our verification form.

✔ FSA & HSA Payments Accepted
We accept Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Accounts (HSA) for all eligible services.

✔ For Your Records: CPT Codes We Commonly Use
If you prefer to call your insurer yourself, you can ask about out-of-network acupuncture benefits using the following commonly billed CPT codes:

  • 99202 – New patient evaluation (approx. 20 min)

  • 99203 – New patient evaluation (approx. 30 min)

  • 97810 – Acupuncture, initial 15 min (no electrical stimulation)

  • 97811 – Acupuncture, each additional 15 min (no electrical stimulation)

  • 97813 – Acupuncture, initial 15 min (with electrical stimulation)

  • 97814 – Acupuncture, each additional 15 min (with electrical stimulation)

  • 20560 – Dry needling, 1–2 muscles

  • 20561 – Dry needling, 3+ muscles

  • 97140 – Manual therapy (e.g., myofascial release, trigger point therapy)

We do not follow up with insurance companies after claim submission, and we cannot guarantee reimbursement. However, we are happy to provide treatment notes or documentation upon request to support your claim if needed.

Schedule an Appointment or Free Phone Consultation

We do not participate with Medicare or Medicaid, including Part C out-of-network coverage. Medicaid Advantage may provide some reimbursement.

If you have secondary out-of-network coverage, this may be an option for reimbursement. 

Schedule an Appointment or Free Phone Consultation

Yes, I offer a free phone-based Q&A session to see if we are the right fit to work together. This is an opportunity to address your questions and ensure that my approach aligns with your health goals. You may book your Q&A session here: Schedule an Appointment or Free Phone Consultation

Most people feel a quick muscle movement (that local twitch response we talked about), a brief cramp, or a dull ache. Some spots might be a bit more sensitive, but overall, it’s usually not too uncomfortable. Dr. Barber is very careful to make the effective treatment as beneficial as possible with minimal discomfort.

How many treatment sessions you’ll need depends on your specific problem, how long you’ve had it, and your general health. Some issues get better after just a few visits, but long-term or tricky conditions might need more treatment. Dr. Barber will talk with you about your personal treatment plan during your first visit. The effectiveness of dry needling can vary, but many find it an effective treatment for trigger point therapy.

When done by a trained expert like Dr. Barber, who is among the licensed acupuncturists also skilled in this Western medicine technique, dry needling is very safe. We always use clean, new needles for each patient and follow strict healthcare safety rules. Dr. Barber will ask about your health history to make sure it’s safe for you, especially if you take blood thinners or have a weakened immune system (compromised immune systems).

It’s a good idea to have eaten something before you come. Wear comfy, loose clothes so Dr. Barber can easily reach the area that needs treatment. And please, bring any questions you have about your condition or the dry needling treatment! Schedule an Appointment or Free Phone Consultation

Generally, no. For most people and most conditions, expertly performed dry needling is highly effective without ultrasound guidance. While ultrasound can be a helpful tool in rare, very specific situations, research suggests it doesn’t necessarily make dry needling treatment more effective for common trigger points.³ Dr. Barber relies on his extensive training, precise anatomical knowledge, and years of experience to deliver safe and effective treatment. Some clinics may push for routine ultrasound guidance, but this can often lead to unnecessary costs. For a more detailed explanation, you can read Dr. Barber’s article: Do You Need Ultrasound Guided Dry Needling?

Schedule an Appointment or Free Phone Consultation

Pelvic floor dry needling is a targeted treatment using thin filiform needles to release trigger points and muscle tension in the pelvic floor. It may help reduce pain, improve muscle function, and restore normal movement patterns.

Schedule an Appointment or Free Phone Consultation

Most patients feel a brief muscle twitch or cramp-like sensation during treatment. Discomfort is usually short-lived and often followed by a feeling of release or relief.

Schedule an Appointment or Free Phone Consultation

We maintain your comfort and privacy while working within your boundaries. Depending on the location being treated, undressing may be needed, but always with appropriate draping/covering. Internal examination and techniques are not performed or required.

Schedule an Appointment or Free Phone Consultation

Yes. I treat adults of all genders and identities. I provide a welcoming, inclusive environment. For post-operative gender-affirming care involving the pelvic floor, please bring surgical notes so we can assess appropriateness and safety together as each patient is very unique.

Schedule an Appointment or Free Phone Consultation

The number of treatments varies depending on the condition, its severity, and your response. Many patients notice improvement within 3–6 sessions, though complex cases may require longer-term care.

Schedule an Appointment or Free Phone Consultation

Yes, when performed by a trained, licensed provider with experience in pelvic anatomy. All needles are sterile and single-use. The procedure is precise and tailored to your needs and comfort level.

In NY State the only providers legally allowed to perform dry needling are Medical Doctors (MD), Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (DO), Nurse Practitioners (NP), Physician Assistants (PA), and Acupuncturists (LAc). It is forbidden by the State Board for Chiropractors (DC) and Physical Therapists (PTs) to perform dry needling regardless of their training. For your safety, please choose a provider that is both properly trained and legally allowed to perform the technique.

Schedule an Appointment or Free Phone Consultation

Most pelvic floor conditions do benefit from dry needling, especially those involving muscle tension, trigger points, or nerve irritation. However, I require all pelvic floor patients to have an active diagnosis from a qualified medical provider or pelvic floor physical therapist. This is because dry needling is often just one part of the overall treatment strategy—it works best when integrated with a broader care plan that may include physical therapy, medical management, or other interventions. My goal is to ensure that dry needling is applied safely and appropriately as part of a comprehensive approach tailored to your specific diagnosis.

Schedule an Appointment or Free Phone Consultation

It is time to stop "managing" the tension.

Access the care that few others can provide.
You have tried the breathing. You have tried the stretches. If the muscle is still locked, it needs a mechanical release.
118 W. 72nd, Rear Lobby, Upper West Side, NY 10023 Evidence-based acupuncture and dry needling on the Upper West Side, NYC. From chronic pain, headaches, and pelvic floor dysfunction, Dr. Jordan Barber integrates the highest level of training with compassionate care to help you thrive. Disclaimer: This site does not provide medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your health. Read our full disclaimer

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