What is dry needling?
Dry needling is a treatment technique where very fine, sterile needles are inserted into tight or sensitive areas of muscle often called myofascial trigger points. The goal is to reduce muscle tension, improve blood flow, and help restore normal movement.
What does dry needling do?
When a needle is inserted into a trigger point, it can
- Create a small “twitch response” in the muscle (a quick contraction)
- Help relax tight muscle bands
- Improve circulation to the area
- Reduce local and referred pain
It is called “dry needling”, because no medication or substance is injected into the muscle. It is just the needle itself.
So what’s the difference between Dry Needling and Acupuncture?
Although both use similar needles, they’re based on very different philosophies and goals.
Dry needling
A system based on modern anatomy and Western medicine. It targets specific muscles, trigger points, and soft tissues. Aiming to treat musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. The dry needling is a technique commonly used by osteopaths and other manual therapist to improve muscle function.
Acupuncture
Originates from Traditional Chinese Medicine and focuses on restoring the flow of “Qi” (energy) along meridians. Commonly used for a broader range of conditions (pain, stress, digestion). Needle placement is based on energy pathways rather than muscle anatomy
How osteopaths use dry needling for musculoskeletal pain
Osteopaths integrate dry needling into a broader, hands-on treatment approach. Vary rarely do we use the dry needling technique approach on its own.
Common conditions treated:
- Neck and back pain
- Tension headaches
- Shoulder pain (e.g. rotator cuff issues)
- Hip and glute tightness
- Tendinopathies (e.g. tennis elbow, Achilles pain)
- Muscle strains and overuse injuries
Everyone is different and you may want to speak to George Asproukos Osteopath before you decide which treatment is appropriate for you or make a an appointment now