Dry needling is a modern, evidence-based treatment technique used by physiotherapists to relieve pain and improve muscle function. It involves inserting fine, sterile needles into trigger points—tight knots or bands within muscles—that may be causing pain, stiffness, or restricted movement.
Unlike acupuncture, which is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, dry needling is based on Western medical and anatomical principles. Its goal is to target and release myofascial trigger points and restore normal function to the affected muscles and tissues.
Dry needling works by stimulating the nervous system and causing a “twitch response” in the muscle, which helps reduce tension, improve blood flow, and promote healing. It is commonly used to treat musculoskeletal injuries such as neck and back pain, shoulder impingement, tennis elbow, hip and glute pain, and many sports-related issues.
Research supports dry needling as an effective treatment for reducing pain, improving range of motion, and speeding up recovery when combined with other physiotherapy techniques. It is a safe and minimally invasive approach that can form a valuable part of your injury rehabilitation or pain management plan.
If you’re dealing with a persistent injury or muscle tightness, dry needling may be the key to helping you move and feel better.
How to Book With Us
You can find us in Nottingham. Give us a call on 0115 901 7867 or use our online booking system. Please note that our dry needling specialist currently works on Saturdays at Wollaton Clinic!