Dry Needling

What Is Dry Needling?

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Dry needling is a physiotherapy technique that uses thin, single-use needles to target tight muscles, trigger points, and areas of tension in the body. Unlike acupuncture, which is based on traditional Chinese medicine principles, dry needling is grounded in Western anatomy and neurophysiology — it's used specifically to release muscle tightness, reduce pain, and restore normal movement.

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The needles are inserted directly into "trigger points" — small, tight knots within a muscle that can cause pain, restrict movement, or refer pain to other areas of the body. This can help release muscle tension, improve blood flow, and support your body's natural healing response.

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How Does Dry Needling Help?

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Dry needling is often used alongside other physiotherapy treatment — such as manual therapy, exercise prescription, and postural correction — as part of a broader treatment plan. It's not typically used as a standalone treatment.

It may help with:

• Muscle tightness and trigger points

• Chronic and acute muscle pain

• Neck, shoulder, and back pain

• Headaches related to muscle tension

• Sports injuries and overuse injuries

• Reduced range of motion

• Postural-related muscle tension

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What Does Dry Needling Feel Like?

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Most people feel a small prick as the needle is inserted, followed by a dull ache or muscle twitch response as the trigger point releases. Some mild soreness afterward — similar to how a muscle feels after a workout — is common and usually settles within a day or two.

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Is Dry Needling Right for You?

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Your physiotherapist will assess whether dry needling is appropriate for you as part of your overall treatment plan, taking into account your symptoms, medical history, and treatment goals. Dry needling is generally well tolerated, though it's not suitable for everyone — your physio will talk you through this during your assessment.