What is medical acupuncture/dry needling and how can it help you?

As a soft tissue therapist I find that dry needling is a very complimentary therapy to some of the other techniques I use to treat my clients. However, I am also aware that some people are just uncomfortable with needles so your consent is always requested before any needles will be used, with absolutely no pressure what so ever. Whilst the needles are a fantastic tool for relieving muscular tension there are other approaches that work equally well. So if you’re uncomfortable with needles then feel free to decline.

Medical acupuncture, also known as dry needling, shares similarities with traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) acupuncture but also has distinct differences. While TCM focuses on energy meridians, dry needling is based on anatomic principles. Therapists use palpation skills to locate taut bands of tissue or trigger points, small nodules that can be tender, to determine where to insert needles.

During a medical acupuncture session, ultra-fine needles are inserted into specific points. The needle length varies based on the target muscle; for example, a rugby player may require a larger needle for their quads or glutes compared to a ballet dancer. Similarly, superficial muscles like the trapezius need smaller needles than deeper muscles like the quadratus lumborum.

Once inserted, the needles typically remain in place for a few minutes to facilitate their effects. These needles stimulate various responses in the body, such as pain modulation, increased circulation, and nervous system stimulation.

Dry needling can trigger a calming effect by stimulating the nervous system, reducing tension and stress, which can positively impact recovery and chronic pain management.

As a soft tissue therapist I find that dry needling is a very complimentary therapy to some of the other techniques I use to treat my clients. However, I am also aware that some people are just uncomfortable with needles so your consent is always requested before any needles will be used, with absolutely no pressure what so ever. Whilst the needles are a fantastic tool for relieving muscular tension there are other approaches that work equally well. So if you’re uncomfortable with needles then feel free to decline.