Dry Needling

What is dry needling?

Dry needling is a technique that uses fine, sterile, single-use needles inserted into tight muscles and trigger points-the knotted, sensitive spots that can build up in overworked or strained muscle. The ''dry'' simply means nothing is injected: the needle itself does the work. It's used to release those trigger points, ease tension and calm pain, helping your muscles let go and move more freely.

How does it work?

Placing a needle into a trigger point prompts the muscle to respond and reset. it works by:

Encouraging tight muscle fibres and trigger points to release

Increasing blood flow to the area to support healing

Calming the local nerve signals that drive pain

Prompting the body's natural pain-relieving response

What are the benefits?

Releases tension and eases muscle tightness

Improves range of motion and movement

Reduces pain and stiffness

Supports faster recovery

A quick, targeted way to reach deep muscle that's hard to treat by hand alone

Helps break long-standing patterns of muscle tension

What can it help with?

Dry needling can be useful for a range of muscle and movement-related issues, including:

Muscle tightness and stubborn knots

Neck, shoulder and back pain

Sports injuries and overuse strains

Tendon-related pain (such as tennis elbow)

Restricted movement caused by tight muscle

What does it feel like, and what to expect afterwards?

Most people feel a brief ache or a small muscle twitch as the needle goes in-this is normal and settles quickly. Afterwards you may notice:

Minor bruising or tenderness at the needle site
A little tiredness or mild soreness for a day or so

This all passes on it's own. To help, it's worth staying hydrated and easing off intense exercise for the rest of the day.

Is it safe?

Yes- in trained hands, dry needling is a safe and well-established technique, using sterile, single-use needles every time. We'll always explain what's involved and only go ahead with you agreement. Please tell us beforehand if you're pregnant, take blood-thinning medication, have a bleeding disorder, a needle phobia, or any condition that affects healing, as it may not be suitable for you.

Dry needling isn't acupuncture

Although both use fine needles, they're different. Acupuncture comes from traditional Chinese medicine and works along energy points: dry needling is a modern, Western technique based on anatomy and muscle function, targeting specific trigger points to relieve pain and tension.

We use needling within your treatment wherever it's the right fit for you-never as a one-size-fits-all, always tailored to you and what your body needs.