What is DRY NEEDLING?... Is it for me?...

What is Dry Needling?

Dry needling is a therapeutic technique used by many healthcare professionals. Primarily this treatment technique is utilised by physiotherapists, chiropractors, podiatrists, massage therapists and other manual therapists, to treat muscular pain and dysfunction. It involves inserting thin, solid needles into specific points in the body, often referred to as "trigger points" or "myofascial trigger points," which are tight bands of muscle fibers that can contribute to pain and restricted movement.

Unlike acupuncture, which is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine and focuses on the flow of energy along meridians, dry needling is based on the principles of Western medicine and neurophysiology. The needles used in dry needling are typically similar to acupuncture needles in size and design, but the techniques and goals differ.

The primary aim of dry needling is to release muscle tension and improve circulation in the affected area, thereby reducing pain and promoting healing. The insertion of the needle into a trigger point can lead to a local twitch response, which is a brief and involuntary contraction of the muscle fibers. This response is thought to help relax the muscle and relieve pain. Dry needling should be used in conjunction with other physiotherapy techniques, exercises, and manual therapies and should not be relied upon as the sole treatment of choice.

Types of Dry Needling

There are two main types of dry needling, and the choice depends on the condition being treated and the practitioner’s approach. Both methods use fine, sterile needles to target muscle tension and trigger points effectively.

Superficial Dry Needling (SDN): Superficial dry needling involves inserting the needle just below the skin’s surface, stimulating the tissue above the trigger point. This gentle technique helps reduce pain sensitivity and can be particularly beneficial for those new to dry needling or experiencing mild discomfort.

Deep Dry Needling (DDN): Deep dry needling targets deeper layers of muscle tissue to directly release tight knots or trigger points. It’s commonly used for chronic tension and musculoskeletal conditions that don’t respond to superficial treatment.

When Do Physiotherapists Consider Dry Needling?

Physiotherapists may recommend dry needling when muscle tightness, trigger points, or chronic pain limit movement and function. It’s often used alongside other treatments such as manual therapy, stretching, or exercise programs. This approach helps improve mobility, decrease pain, and accelerate recovery in both acute and long-term injuries.

Explore the Benefits of Dry Needling

Physiotherapists can use dry needling for a variety of musculoskeletal conditions, such as:

1. Muscle pain and tension: Dry needling can be effective in reducing tightness and pain in muscles caused by overuse, injury, or poor posture.

2. Myofascial pain syndrome: This condition involves the presence of trigger points in muscles, leading to referred pain and restricted movement.

3. Sports injuries: Dry needling can be used to address sports-related injuries, such as muscle strains and overuse injuries.

4. Chronic pain: Individuals with conditions like fibromyalgia or chronic lower back pain may find relief through dry needling.

5. Headaches and migraines: Some practitioners use dry needling to alleviate tension and pain associated with headaches.

Common Conditions Treated with Dry Needling

Dry needling can be used to treat a wide variety of musculoskeletal conditions that cause pain and restrict mobility. These include neck and shoulder pain, back tension, tendon injuries, joint stiffness, and nerve-related discomfort. It’s also effective in supporting recovery from sports injuries and overuse syndromes.

Dry Needling vs Acupuncture

Although dry needling and acupuncture use similar tools, their purpose and philosophy differ significantly. Acupuncture is based on traditional Chinese medicine principles, aiming to balance the body’s energy flow or “Qi.” Dry needling, on the other hand, is grounded in Western anatomy and neuroscience, focusing on releasing muscle tension, improving blood flow, and reducing pain.

How Long Does Dry Needling Last?

The effects of dry needling can vary depending on the individual and the condition treated. Some people experience immediate relief after one session, while others may need several treatments for sustained improvement. Mild soreness may occur for 24–48 hours after treatment, which is normal and part of the healing process. Regular follow-up with your physiotherapist helps maintain long-term results.

Reach Out to our Dry Needling Physiotherapists

It's important to note that while dry needling can be an effective therapeutic option for many individuals, it should only be performed by trained and licensed healthcare professionals who are knowledgeable about anatomy and safe needling practices. If you're considering dry needling as a treatment option, it's advisable to consult a healthcare provider to determine whether it's appropriate for your specific condition and needs.