477 | Adjustments, Ultrasound, Dry Needling, Breathwork: Addressing Overblown Medical Claims About Pain Treatments

A patient with fractures across his pelvis was writhing in pain—then breathing exercises helped him stand and lift his feet, pain-free in the moment. On this episode of The Optimal Body, Doc Jen and Dr Dom, both doctors of physical therapy, unpack what hands-on techniques can—and can’t—do, from adjustments and myofascial release to dry needling, acupuncture, ultrasound, and laser. They explain why a spinal adjustment can affect areas several segments away, why a “pop” doesn’t mean bones moved back into place, and why sham needling can bring similar relief. The bigger takeaway: these tools may offer a temporary window to move, but lasting change comes from building movement and load.