Dry Needling
What Is Dry Needling?
You may have heard people recommending dry needling for pain and are wondering what it is and whether it might help you.
Dry needling is a Western muscle technique that uses acupuncture needles to release knots in muscles. Getting the tip of the needle into the trigger point within the muscle releases the tension in that area.
Does It Work for My Problem?
If your problem is primarily caused by a tight or overloaded muscle, it can work beautifully. We have seen excellent results from a single needle, but these are the exception rather than the rule.
Often when a muscle is tight and irritable, it is because it is being overworked – compensating for something else, or simply weaker than it needs to be. In these cases, releasing the muscle is only a minor part of a broader treatment programme. We assess your whole picture before recommending it.
Dry needling is usually one tool within a wider treatment approach, not a standalone cure. This is why we don’t offer it as a standalone treatment - we do physiotherapy, and if that suggests a need for it, we can recommend it.
Equally, if you are needle phobic, or don’t need it for your problem, then we will attack your problem differently.
Is It Safe?
Yes. We use single-use, sterile needles. It is generally well tolerated. Some people feel a brief ache or twitch response when the needle reaches the trigger point – this is normal and usually indicates the technique is working.
Any Questions?
Contact us or book an appointment and we can discuss whether dry needling is appropriate for you.
