Dry-needling (modern acupuncture)

Dry-needling, also known as modern acupuncture, is a technique that may be used alongside Osteopathic treatment to help reduce muscle tension and spasm. It works by targeting specific trigger points within muscles that are often associated with pain, restriction and altered movement. Dry-needling is commonly used when symptoms relate to muscular or ligamentous strain, joint irritation, arthritis, nerve irritation or neck and back pain.

Acute or repetitive strain injuries can lead to local inflammation and protective muscle guarding. This increased muscle tension can reduce circulation which limits oxygen supply to the area and slows the removal of waste products. Over time this may contribute to stiffness, reduced mobility and irritation of nearby nerves or joints which can affect overall movement patterns.

Dry-needling involves the insertion of a fine sterile needle into a trigger point within the muscle. This can help interrupt the cycle of muscle overactivity and irritation, allowing the muscle to relax and movement to improve. It may help reduce pain and restore more normal muscle function. For example, dry-needling to the upper neck muscles can be helpful for headache or migraine symptoms and treatment to the lower back or pelvis may help with sciatica-type symptoms or leg pain.

After treatment involving dry-needling it is common to experience some temporary soreness or aching for up to 24–48 hours and occasionally mild bruising. Advice may be given on gentle movement, stretching or the use of ice where appropriate.

Dry-needling is different from traditional acupuncture. It is based on Western anatomical and neurophysiological principles rather than traditional Chinese medicine. Although the same type of needles are used, the rationale and treatment approach are different.

Further discussion of modern acupuncture and its role within Osteopathic care can be found in the related blog article on the website.

Appointments can be booked via my online diary.