What Is Dry Needling?
Dry needling techniques are used by several osteopaths in the practice, to enhance the effectiveness of their treatments. Also known as ‘Western Medical Acupuncture’ this differs from Traditional Acupuncture in that it is based on western medical thinking: conventional anatomy, physiology and pathology.
Dry needling stimulates the nerves in skin and muscle and can produce a variety of effects. We know that it increases the body’s release of natural painkillers – endorphin and serotonin – in the pain pathways of both the spinal cord and the brain. This modifies the way pain signals are received.
As a general guide, if you are suffering from pain, needles may well improve your symptoms. Results can never be guaranteed; many people react very well to needling while some notice little change. For conditions such as neck and back pain, your chances of being helped are probably about 80%, with some people becoming completely free of pain. In addition, acupuncture often improves sleep, promotes relaxation, and results in a feeling of improved wellbeing.
The needles used are solid (not hollow) and extremely fine. All needles used in the practice are packed singly in sterile blisters and only used once. Needles may be removed after just a few seconds or may be left in place for up to several minutes. The patient's verbal consent will be sought before using acupuncture and patients have the option to decline.
No extra charge is made when dry needling is used in a treatment session.
What Does Dry Needling Do?
Dry needling works by stimulating tight muscle fibres and trigger points that can cause local and referred pain. When a needle is inserted into a trigger point, it can produce a tiny muscle twitch response — this helps to:
- Release muscle tension
- Increase blood flow and circulation
- Reduce pain signals to the brain
- Improve muscle function and flexibility
By interrupting the cycle of muscle spasm and restricted movement, dry needling supports your body’s natural ability to heal and recover more effectively.
Difference Between Acupuncture & Dry Needling
Traditional Acupuncture is a complete system of medicine and can be used to treat a wide range of health conditions. However, the osteopaths here at The Broad Street Practice generally confine their dry needling techniques to the relief of musculoskeletal pain, for example – back, shoulder, neck and leg pain, and to treat headaches, migraines, trapped nerves, chronic muscle strains, sports injuries and various kinds of arthritic and rheumatic pain.
Dry Needling Benefits
Patients often choose dry needling for its range of benefits, including:
- Targeted pain relief without medication — ideal for those wanting to reduce reliance on painkillers.
- Improved range of motion and flexibility through muscle release.
- Enhanced recovery from chronic conditions and injuries.
- Reduced muscle tension and stiffness.
Dry needling is often part of a broader therapy plan including exercise, massage, and manual therapy to support long-term improvements in movement and pain relief.
Conditions Treated with Dry Needling
Dry needling is effective for a wide range of acute and chronic pain conditions, including:
Back Pain
Dry needling can help release deep muscle tension that contributes to chronic lower back pain and restricted movement.
Neck Pain
By targeting trigger points in the neck and shoulders, dry needling can reduce stiffness and improve mobility.
Shoulder Pain
Ideal for tight rotator cuff muscles, trigger points and muscular imbalances that contribute to shoulder discomfort.
Other Musculoskeletal Pain
Dry needling is also commonly used for:
- Chronic pain syndromes
- Sports injuries and strains
- Trigger point pain in muscles throughout the body
Why Choose Us for Dry Needling?
At The Broad Street Practice, we offer professional dry needling therapy performed by experienced clinicians. Our approach focuses on treating the root causes of pain, not just masking symptoms, and is tailored to each individual’s needs for optimal recovery.
