Traditional and complementary medicine · Treatment guide
Dry Needling
Assessment of dry needling in muscle pain, how it differs from acupuncture, preparation before the procedure and its relationship to the exercise programme.
Updated: · General information
Dry Needling: what approach is taken?
Dry needling is a method applied, using an acupuncture needle or a standard hypodermic needle, to the trigger points that are the source of pain and tension. It differs from acupuncture in that the sites treated are not acupuncture points but the spastic muscle itself, its origin and insertion, and tendinous and tenosynovial structures. The site of application and the number of sessions are decided by the physician according to the patient’s clinical condition; no health professional other than a physician may perform this procedure.
Areas of assessment and treatment
- Cervicobrachial and lumbosacral muscle involvement
- Acute lumbar and paravertebral muscle spasm
- Cases of fibromyalgia and muscle knots or cramp
- Muscle spasm related to sports injuries
- Performed only by the treating specialist in physical medicine and rehabilitation
The difference between dry needling and injection
In dry needling, no medication is delivered into the target tissue. Whether the pain is muscular in origin, and whether the procedure is appropriate, is assessed first. The area to be needled, the risk of bleeding and the person’s tolerance are taken into account. Not all painful points are regarded as trigger points.
Follow-up after the procedure
Short-lived tenderness or bruising may occur. Advice on movement and loading is given individually; the causes of strain at work and in exercise are also addressed. Breathlessness or chest pain developing after treatment around the chest in particular is not regarded as a normal effect of the session and requires emergency assessment.
What is assessed at the first consultation?
Your medical history, your current symptoms, the medicines you take and your needs in daily life are all discussed. You may share any previous investigations you have. Suitable options are considered together after the physician’s assessment.
Your questions
Patient information
Are dry needling and acupuncture the same?
Although similar needles may be used, the assessment and the choice of target can differ. The purpose for which it is recommended should be explained during the consultation.
Does it provide a lasting solution on its own?
A lasting result cannot be guaranteed. Other needs, such as appropriate exercise and load management, are assessed alongside it.
