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What is dry needling?

Dry needling is a treatment technique in which a physiotherapist inserts a thin, sterile needle into a muscle. No fluid or medication is injected, which is where the name ‘dry needling’ comes from.

The technique is used for muscle-related pain, for example when certain areas within a muscle are sensitive and reproduce familiar symptoms. These areas are often called trigger points.

The aim of treatment is to reduce muscle-related pain and make movement easier.

What are trigger points?

A trigger point is a sensitive area within a muscle. Pressure on this area may cause pain in the muscle itself or elsewhere in the body. This is known as referred pain.

During the assessment, we consider whether muscle tenderness is related to your symptoms. Not every painful or stiff muscle needs to be treated with dry needling.

When can dry needling be used?

Your physiotherapist may consider dry needling for muscle-related symptoms, such as:

• Painful or tender muscles.

• Stiffness and difficulty moving.

• Neck and shoulder problems involving muscles.

• Back problems with muscle-related pain.

• Muscle pain during sport or other activities.

Whether dry needling is appropriate depends on the assessment, your health and your preferences. We also discuss other treatment options.

What does the treatment involve?

We begin by discussing your symptoms and what you would like to be able to do again. We then assess how you move and which muscles may be involved.

If dry needling appears suitable, we explain what the treatment involves. We discuss the potential benefits, side effects and risks beforehand. Treatment only takes place with your consent.

Your physiotherapist then inserts a thin needle into the relevant muscle. This may cause the muscle to contract briefly. Afterwards, we discuss your response and which exercises or advice may support your recovery.

What does dry needling feel like during and after treatment?

Inserting the needle may feel like a small pinprick. If the muscle contracts briefly, you may experience a cramping sensation or familiar pain. The sensation varies depending on the person and the muscle being treated.

Afterwards, the muscle may temporarily feel tender, stiff or tired. A small bruise may also develop. You will receive advice on movement and gradually increasing your activities after treatment.

Please tell us beforehand about any medication you take, such as blood thinners, and any relevant health conditions. This helps your physiotherapist assess whether treatment is suitable for you.

What can you expect from dry needling?

Some people experience less pain or find movement easier after treatment. For others, the effect is limited. Results vary from person to person and between conditions.

We therefore assess together whether dry needling adds value to your treatment. Exercises, education and gradually increasing activity at an appropriate pace remain important parts of your treatment plan.

Is dry needling the same as acupuncture?

Both techniques use thin needles, but their approaches and aims differ. In dry needling, your physiotherapist focuses on muscles that may be involved in your symptoms. It forms part of a physiotherapy treatment plan.

Dry needling at Fysio in Balance

At Fysio in Balance in Brunssum, we assess which approach suits your symptoms and goals. If dry needling is appropriate, we combine it with exercises and advice where needed.

Would you like to make an appointment or ask a question first? Get in touch with us.