Dry Needling & Trigger Point Release

A precision technique using fine monofilament needles to deactivate myofascial trigger points, interrupt the pain-spasm cycle, and restore normal muscle function — with minimal discomfort and immediate results.

30–45 min sessions

Registered physiotherapists only

Sterile single-use needles

Book an Assessment How It Works

Physiotherapist performing dry needling technique

Neurophysiology-Based Technique

What Is Dry Needling?

Precision Relief at the Source of Pain

Dry needling involves the insertion of a thin, sterile, single-use needle — identical in type to those used in acupuncture — into a myofascial trigger point. The term "dry" refers to the fact that no substance is injected; the needle itself is the therapeutic instrument.

The needle elicits a brief local twitch response — a short contraction of the muscle band — that breaks the contraction-pain cycle, improves local blood flow, and reduces sensitisation of the nerve endings embedded in the trigger point. It is applied within a musculoskeletal and neuroanatomical clinical framework, not a traditional medicine one.

Sterilesingle-use needles

Acute &chronic conditions

Rapidpain relief

Conditions Treated

Where Dry Needling Makes a Difference

Dry needling is indicated wherever myofascial trigger points are a primary or contributing source of pain and restricted movement.

Neck Pain & Cervicogenic Headache Shoulder Tension & Rotator Cuff Pain Lower Back Trigger Points Myofascial Pain Syndrome Repetitive Strain & Forearm Pain Athletic Muscle Soreness & Recovery Tension-Type Headache Calf & Hamstring Tightness

What to Expect

A Typical Dry Needling Session

Trigger Point Assessment

Your physiotherapist identifies active trigger points through palpation and movement testing. The clinical indication and your consent are confirmed before any needles are used.

Needle Insertion

A fine sterile needle is inserted directly into the trigger point. You may feel a brief local twitch response — a short, involuntary muscle contraction that is a positive sign of accurate placement.

During Treatment

The needle remains in place for 20–30 seconds to several minutes depending on the technique used. A dull ache or heaviness in the treated muscle is normal and indicates therapeutic activity.

Post-Treatment

Mild muscle soreness similar to post-exercise ache is expected for 12–24 hours. Light movement and gentle stretching are encouraged. Avoid heavy loading on the treated area for 24 hours.

Rehabilitation Integration

Dry needling achieves its most durable results when combined with targeted exercise and manual therapy. Your clinician will build it into your broader treatment programme.

Physiotherapist providing hands-on treatment

FAQs

Common Questions About Dry Needling

The needles are similar in type, but the clinical framework is fundamentally different. Dry needling is guided by musculoskeletal anatomy, neurophysiology, and clinical diagnosis. Acupuncture is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine principles involving qi and meridians. Both can be effective for pain, but they operate on different stated mechanisms and clinical targets.

Most patients find the sensation manageable and often milder than expected. The brief twitch response — a short involuntary contraction — is the most noticeable sensation and is actually a desirable clinical sign. Between twitches, the procedure is generally well-tolerated even by patients who are wary of needles.

Yes, when performed by a registered physiotherapist using sterile technique. Adverse events are rare and generally minor — transient muscle soreness, occasional small bruise at the needle site. Serious complications are extremely uncommon with properly trained clinicians.

Most patients notice meaningful improvement within 2–4 sessions when dry needling is combined with rehabilitative exercise. Chronic or widespread myofascial presentations may benefit from a longer course integrated within a broader physiotherapy programme.

Dry needling is not appropriate for patients with severe needle phobia, bleeding disorders, active local infection or skin condition over the treatment area, known malignancy, or during the first trimester of pregnancy (certain areas). A full medical screen is conducted at your initial appointment.