Dry Needling
A minimally invasive technique to address muscle pain, release tension and improve movement.
Dry Needling
About dry needling
Dry needling is a treatment used within physiotherapy that involves inserting fine, sterile needles into specific areas of muscle tissue to address pain and movement limitations. Unlike acupuncture, which follows traditional meridian pathways, dry needling targets tight muscle bands and so‑called “trigger points” that are contributing to discomfort and restricted range of motion. It is often integrated into a broader rehabilitation plan alongside exercise, manual therapy and activity‑based strategies.
What is dry needling for?
Dry needling is commonly used to treat musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction that has not fully responded to conventional approaches such as manual therapy or exercise alone. It helps people with chronic muscle tightness, low back or neck pain, shoulder discomfort, sports‑related muscle tension, and restricted mobility by addressing underlying muscle trigger points and facilitating tissue relaxation.
How dry needling may help
By stimulating targeted points within muscle and connective tissue, dry needling can reduce muscle tension, increase local blood flow, and support the body’s natural responses to injury and inflammation. Many people experience reduced pain, improved flexibility, and enhanced muscle function when dry needling is used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.
Ready to support your healing?
Dry needling: wow it works
A trained clinician identifies muscle regions that are tight, painful or limiting movement. Using thin, sterile filiform needles, the clinician inserts them through the skin into targeted muscle areas. These micro‑stimulations can help release tension and trigger a healing response within the tissue. Sessions are relatively brief and are typically combined with other therapeutic exercises or manual techniques for best results.
Frequently asked questions
Is dry needling the same as acupuncture?
No. Although both involve thin needles, dry needling focuses specifically on Western anatomical and musculoskeletal assessment to treat pain and movement issues at trigger points.
Does dry needling hurt?
Some people feel a mild prick or sensation at the needle insertion site. Others describe a brief muscle twitch response. Most find it tolerable and many report noticeable relief after treatment.
How many sessions will I need?
The number of sessions depends on your condition and how your body responds. Some people feel improvement after just one session, but a series of treatments spaced over a few weeks is often recommended for lasting benefit.
Are there any risks?
Dry needling is generally safe when performed by a qualified clinician using sterile needles. Common minor effects include temporary soreness, slight bruising or local discomfort. Rare risks can include deeper tissue irritation or injury if not performed correctly, which is why proper clinical assessment and technique are important.
Why us?
Personalised treatment approach
We assess your movement, pain and functional goals to tailor dry needling within your rehabilitation plan, ensuring it addresses the source of your symptoms, not just the surface discomfort.
Experienced clinical team
Our clinicians are trained in musculoskeletal assessment and dry needling techniques, integrating this therapy safely with exercise and manual therapy to support effective outcomes.
Holistic care focus
Dry needling is one tool among many — we combine it with hands‑on care, therapeutic exercise and movement education so you can regain comfort, mobility and confidence in your everyday activities.
Ready to get started?
If persistent muscle tension or pain is limiting your movement, dry needling may help relieve symptoms and support your recovery. Take the next step towards improved comfort and function.