I'm an athlete. 2 years ago I suffered a herniated L5 S1 disc. This disc pressed on my sciatic nerve and caused crippling pain, muscle atrophy, and almost completely immobilized me. The orthopedist with whom I sought treatment believed surgery was the only option. I decided to try non surgical solutions first. My physical therapist enlisted am array of treatments. I am completely certain that dry needling and electric stim were the most effective factors in my recovery, relieving the chronic muscle tension that was preventing me from correcting the hernia. Because of dry needling, I'm now back to 100% and did not have to risk spinal surgery. This is an important technique that provides better outcomes for patients.