Dry Needling

Dry needling uses thin, sterile, single-use needles placed directly into a myofascial trigger point — a taut, irritable band within a muscle. There is no medication involved; the needle itself is the treatment, which is why it is called 'dry'.

The lead clinician holds a Fellowship in Neuromuscular Dry Needling, which covers safe technique across the spine, limbs and deeper muscle groups. It is used as a precise adjunct to manual therapy and exercise — not as a stand-alone treatment.

• Myofascial trigger points in the trapezius, levator scapulae and glutes
• Chronic neck and mid-back muscular tightness
• Shoulder impingement and rotator cuff irritation
• Tension-type headaches with a muscular origin
• Calf, hamstring and plantar trigger points in runners
• Lateral hip and gluteal pain
• Muscle guarding that has not responded to stretching or massage

1. Suitability CheckBleeding disorders, anticoagulant use, skin condition and needle anxiety are reviewed. Consent is taken every time.
2. Trigger Point MappingThe muscle is palpated to locate the exact taut band — accuracy matters more than the number of needles.
3. Needle InsertionFine-gauge, sterile, single-patient needles are inserted. You may feel a brief deep ache or a visible twitch response.
4. Immediate RetestWe test range and pain straight afterward so you can feel the change yourself.
5. Load & AftercareThe released muscle is immediately loaded with movement, and aftercare guidance is given.

A session takes 15–25 minutes. The twitch response feels like a brief cramp and settles within seconds. Mild post-needle soreness for 24 hours is normal — like the day after a hard workout.

Typically 3–6 sessions, used within a wider 4–8 session plan. If two sessions produce no change, we stop and reassess rather than continue.

Bleeding disorders, anticoagulant therapy (with caution and clearance), needle phobia, active local infection, pregnancy in selected sites, and lymphoedema in the target limb. Your physiotherapist will assess suitability.

• Fellowship-qualified in Neuromuscular Dry Needling — not a weekend-course add-on
• Single-use, sterile, single-patient needles only
• Every needling session is paired with immediate active loading