What Is Dry Needling?

If you’ve seen dry needling offered as part of remedial massage or sports therapy, you might be wondering what it actually does, or whether it’s basically the same thing as acupuncture.

They might look similar because both involve very fine needles, but dry needling is a different treatment approach.

So, what actually is dry needling?

Dry needling involves inserting a very fine, sterile needle into specific areas of muscle or other soft tissue.

It’s commonly used when treating muscular pain, tightness or restricted movement. Depending on what’s going on, a therapist might use it alongside massage and other hands-on techniques rather than as a treatment on its own.

Despite the name, there’s nothing being injected. The needle is “dry”, meaning no medication or other substance is delivered into the body.

Is dry needling the same as acupuncture?

No.

The needles themselves can look very similar, which is where a lot of the confusion comes from.

Dry needling is generally used within a Western musculoskeletal treatment framework, with the therapist choosing where to needle based on their assessment of the area being treated.

Acupuncture has its own history, theories and treatment approaches. While there can be some overlap in techniques and even where needles are placed, they aren’t simply two names for the same treatment.

What does dry needling feel like?

This varies quite a bit from person to person and depending on the area being treated.

You may barely notice the needle going in. At other times you might feel a brief ache, cramp or muscle twitch during treatment.

The area can also feel a little tender afterwards, similar to the soreness some people experience after a massage or a training session.

And importantly, you don’t need to feel a muscle twitch for the treatment to have been done correctly.

What can dry needling be used for?

Dry needling may be one option when treating muscular pain, tightness or movement restrictions.

That doesn’t mean every sore or tight muscle needs a needle.

At S&T STEPS in Woori Yallock, Stacey uses dry needling when it’s appropriate as part of her remedial massage and sports therapy treatments. What she uses will depend on what you’re coming in with, your assessment and what you’re comfortable with.

For some people that might include dry needling. For others, it might not be needed at all.

Do I have to have dry needling?

Definitely not.

If you’re not comfortable with needles, tell Stacey. Dry needling is simply one of the treatment options available and you can still have remedial massage without it.

If you’re curious about dry needling but aren’t sure whether you want it included in your treatment, you can also talk it through with Stacey first.

Want to know more?

If you have a question about dry needling or want to book a remedial massage with Stacey at S&T STEPS in Woori Yallock, get in touch and we can have a chat.