Dry needling can be a good treatment option when you’re comfortable with invasive treatments, aware of the risks related to the intended treatment location and you’re knowingly interested only in a temporary effect. This effect is better in some people than others, and typically assists with reducing muscle pain several days after receiving the treatment, but will less likely have an impact on joint or nerve pain.

Unlike accupuncture (which we admittedly know very little about), dry needling is directed into the belly of various muscles, aiming to improve bloodflow to the area by stimulating communication with the brain and causing some micro trauma to the muscle. You may at times have a little bruising around the site, as with an injection. Treatments around the shoulder, neck or chest areas carry a possible additional risk involving your lungs – this isn’t common but essential to be aware of. If the lung itself is punctured, you may develop shortness of breath in which case you need to go to the nearest hospital. This is no reason to panic as treatment for this complication is very successful providing its not left to progress.

Our therapists have been specifically trained in various techniques of dry needling but won’t use this invasive technique without specific written and signed permission from patients on each day, and without confirmation that the patient is knowingly expecting only temporary responses if any. In the longer term, unless dealing with a neurological or systemic condition causing the spasms, there are usually safer, more effective treatment options available which will be our recommendation to patients.

Your health and wellbeing deserves quality care. Make sure to discuss any concerns you may have directly with your preferred physiotherapist, so that you can receive the appropriate guidance for your unique situation.