Best physiotherapy in Chester | 5* Reviews | Proven experts

Dry Needling Therapy

Precise Relief for Muscular Pain

What is Dry Needling?

A Targeted Approach to Muscle Pain and Dysfunction

Dry needling is a modern therapeutic technique designed to treat muscular pain and tightness. Using thin, filiform needles, your physiotherapist targets specific trigger points—tight bands of muscle fibers that can cause discomfort and restricted movement. Unlike acupuncture, dry needling focuses on medical science and anatomy to address musculoskeletal conditions effectively.

How Does Dry Needling Work?

Relieving Pain and Restoring Function

Dry needling works by inserting a needle directly into the trigger point or affected muscle. This creates a localized twitch response that releases tension, improves blood flow, and stimulates the body’s natural healing mechanisms.

Release of Muscle Tension

Improves flexibility and function.

Improved Blood Flow

Enhances oxygenation and nutrient delivery to the tissues.

Pain Reduction

Interferes with pain signals and promotes endorphin release.

Conditions Treated

Comprehensive Relief for a Range of Issues

Chronic muscle pain and tightness.

Neck and shoulder tension.

Headaches and migraines caused by muscle strain.

Back pain and sciatica.

Sports injuries such as muscle strains and sprains.

Myofascial pain syndrome.

Postural imbalances.

Benefits of Dry
Needling Therapy

Dry needling offers several advantages for individuals suffering from musculoskeletal pain:

Effective Pain Relief:

Addresses deep-seated muscle tension and knots.

Improved Mobility

Restores normal muscle function and flexibility.

Quick Results

Many patients experience relief after just one session.

Safe and Precise

Performed by trained professionals using sterile needles.

What to Expect During Your Treatment

Comfortable, Safe, and Professional Care

Initial Consultation

Our expert physiotherapist will evaluate your condition and identify trigger points causing pain or dysfunction. The deficit will be measured to be reviewed post treatment to demonstrate the result

Treatment Session

Fine needles are gently inserted into the targeted trigger points. The sensation may vary, with most patients feeling minimal discomfort or a mild ache as the muscle releases.

Post-Treatment Care

After your session, you may experience slight muscle soreness, similar to a post-workout feeling. This typically resolves within 24-48 hours, leaving you with improved mobility and reduced pain.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, dry needling and acupuncture are different

Acupuncture, is based on traditional Chinese medicine a pre-science philosophy focused on restoring body wide energy flow (Qi), along non anatomical fictional lines described across you body called meridians, with needles placed sparsely in accordance to these lines. There is not necessarily any measurement of symptom or deficit other than subjective, with number of sessions required and response to treatment unknown. Whilst having some effect, possibly due to the dry needling local changes, Acupuncture has been described in the scientific literature as a ‘performative placebo’. The lack of reproducability or reliability and unknown as to effectiveness and thus cost to patient, means this is not performed at Rebound Physio unless specifically requested.

Dry needling is a modern, evidence-based treatment that targets muscle trigger points to relieve pain and improve movement. Derived from attempts to map the refferal of trigger points in muscles to aid in diagnosis, whereby irritants /anaesthetic were injected. The analgesic / releasing effect was found to be due to the needling rather than the injection (wetness) and thus a thinner more humane needle was chosen hence ‘Dry’ needling.

Dry needling may cause a slight prickon insertion or due to twitch response when the needle is inserted to hypertonic areas. Some patients experience mild soreness or muscle aching for 24-48 hours after treatment, similar to a post-workout sensation.

The number of sessions varies based on your condition, severity, and treatment response. The majority of patients experience improvements after 1 maybe requiring 3 sessions at the most, all the while objective measures are reviewed to assess progress.

Dry needling is effective for treating:

  • Muscle tightness and trigger points
  • Neck and back pain
  • Tendonitis and sports injuries
  • Headaches and migraines
  • Sciatica and nerve pain
  • Plantar fasciitis and shin splints

A dry needling session typically lasts 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the number of areas being treated.

Most patients can return to their normal activities immediately after treatment. However, it’s recommended to avoid intense exercise for 24 hours to allow the muscles to recover.

Yes, dry needling is often combined with physiotherapy, shockwave therapy, massage, or strengthening exercises to enhance recovery and long-term results.

Booking Your Appointment

Take the First Step Toward Pain-Free Living

To learn more or schedule an appointment, feel free to book a free 30-minute consultation or book your injection today. Our team is here to guide you through the process and provide personalized care that meets your needs.