A New York City marathon runner and medical student has officially qualified for the U.S. Olympic Trials, crediting acupuncture and dry needling as key components in her recovery and training routine. According to the announcement, consistent treatment helped her maintain peak performance, manage training-related discomfort, and stay injury-free during crucial preparation periods.
As of the end of 2025 most individuals in the United States either know of acupuncture and have had treatment, or know someone who has used acupuncture. Fortunately we’ve covered this topic from many angles, and provide an in-depth article on what acupuncture is used for.
Dry needling, often used by physical therapists, involves inserting thin filiform needles into muscular trigger points to release tension and improve mobility. While it focuses primarily on musculoskeletal patterns, many athletes pair it with acupuncture, a traditional East Asian practice that uses specific points on the body to support circulation, reduce inflammation, and promote overall balance.
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For this athlete, both approaches offered a powerful combination. The treatments supported recovery between runs, lowered muscle tightness, and helped her maintain the training volume needed to reach Olympic-level performance.
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Stories like this highlight a growing trend: endurance athletes are increasingly turning to integrative therapies to support long-term performance. For runners, acupuncture has been associated with reduced muscle soreness, improved range of motion, and better stress management, making it a versatile option beyond just pain relief.
Positive, inspiring moments like this show how modern training blends science, medicine, and traditional techniques. And for runners everywhere, it’s proof that smart recovery can make a real difference on the road to big goals.
Press release originally published on PR Newswire.
About Morningside Acupuncture
Morningside Acupuncture is one of New York City’s leading clinics specializing in acupuncture and dry needling for pain relief, sports injury recovery, and athletic performance. Its licensed practitioners have advanced training in orthopedic and trigger point dry needling techniques, supporting runners and athletes of all levels with effective, targeted care designed to improve mobility and speed recovery.
www.morningsideacupuncturenyc.com
About 212 Athletic
212 Athletic is a New York City–based training team and community for competitive runners. The organization provides structured coaching, group training sessions, and race support for athletes working to reach personal bests.
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Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions about a medical condition or treatment.
