Dry Needling

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Dry needling is a treatment technique in which a sterile, fine filament needle (similar to an acupuncture needle) is inserted into muscle tissue to help reduce pain and improve movement. It works by targeting myofascial trigger points — commonly referred to as “muscle knots” — which can contribute to pain, tightness, and restricted function.

While dry needling and acupuncture use similar needles, they are based on very different principles.

Dry needling is grounded in modern Western medicine and focuses on the assessment and treatment of the musculoskeletal system. The aim is to reduce pain and restore normal movement by releasing myofascial trigger points and improving muscle function.

Acupuncture, by contrast, is based on traditional Chinese medicine and aims to influence the flow of energy (Qi) through specific points along meridians in the body to promote overall balance and wellbeing.

A myofascial trigger point is a sensitive, tight area within a muscle — often felt as a knot — that forms when muscle fibres remain contracted and are unable to fully relax. These trigger points can restrict normal muscle movement, reduce blood flow, and irritate nearby nerves.

As a result, trigger points may cause:

• local or referred pain;
• tenderness to touch;
• reduced range of motion;
• stiffness or weakness; and
• altered coordination or movement patterns.

Myofascial trigger points commonly develop as part of the body’s protective response to stress or overload. Contributing factors may include:

• muscle strain or injury;
• sudden or unexpected movements;
• repetitive or quick movements;
• changes in training load or activity levels;
• prolonged or sustained postures (such as prolonged sitting);
• nerve irritation or impingement;
• stress;
• illness (viral or bacterial);
• nutritional deficiencies; and
• metabolic or endocrine conditions.

Dry needling helps to decrease local muscle pain and improve function by restoring the muscle’s ability to contract and relax normally.

When a fine filament needle is inserted into a myofascial trigger point, it stimulates a local response within the muscle. This can help reduce muscle tension, improve blood flow, deliver fresh oxygen and nutrients, and assist in clearing metabolic waste products. Together, these effects help relieve pressure on local nerves and blood vessels, supporting pain reduction and improved movement.

Dry needling is commonly used alongside manual therapy, exercise, and rehabilitation to achieve the best outcomes.