Dry needling is an invasive physiotherapy technique that treats muscle-related pain by acting directly on myofascial trigger points. At FisioEscòcia it is performed by a chartered physiotherapist, within a personalised treatment plan and after an initial assessment.
What is dry needling?
It involves inserting a thin needle, similar to an acupuncture needle, into the trigger point of a tight muscle. It is called «dry» because the needle does not inject any drug or substance: the effect comes solely from the mechanical stimulus on the tissue. The aim is to deactivate the trigger point, reduce muscle tension and ease the pain it causes.
When is it indicated?
Dry needling is used as a complement to physiotherapy treatment when there is myofascial pain and active trigger points. It may be helpful in situations such as:
- Muscle knots that do not release with manual therapy.
- Myofascial pain and active trigger points.
- Neck, upper-back or lower-back tension of muscular origin.
- Pain linked to sports or postural overload.
The indication is always assessed case by case. It does not replace the rest of the treatment; it is integrated with manual therapy and therapeutic exercise.
What a session is like
Before needling, the physiotherapist carries out an assessment to locate the trigger points and rule out contraindications. During the technique it is common to feel a local twitch response (a small jump of the muscle) and a brief sensation of pain while the point is worked. The session is completed with manual therapy and exercise or stretching guidance to consolidate the result.
Soreness after needling
It is normal to feel muscle soreness similar to stiffness in the treated area for the following 24 to 48 hours. Small localised bruises may also appear. These are temporary discomforts that usually ease with local heat and gentle movement. If you have any doubts after the session, get in touch with us.
Contraindications
Dry needling is not suitable in every case. It is assessed with particular care or avoided, among other situations, in:
- An insurmountable fear of needles (belonephobia).
- Clotting disorders or anticoagulant treatment.
- Skin conditions or infection in the area to be treated.
- The first trimester of pregnancy and certain areas during gestation.
At the initial assessment we review your history to confirm that the technique is safe and appropriate for you.
Frequently asked questions
Does it hurt?
You feel it. The needle going in is barely noticeable, but on reaching the trigger point a brief discomfort and the local twitch response are common. It is a tolerable, short-lasting pain.
Is it the same as acupuncture?
No. Although the needle is similar, dry needling is a physiotherapy technique based on the myofascial trigger point model, not on traditional Chinese medicine. It is performed by a chartered physiotherapist.
How many sessions do I need?
It depends on each person and the problem. Dry needling is integrated into your physiotherapy plan and is reassessed session by session according to your progress.
Who performs it?
Always a chartered physiotherapist with specific training. Dry needling is an invasive technique that only qualified physiotherapists may perform.