What is Acupuncture & Dry Needling?
Acupuncture and Dry Needling are evidence-based, highly effective treatment techniques performed by a qualified physiotherapist to address a wide range of musculoskeletal issues, including pain, muscle tension, and restricted movement. Both therapies are rooted in scientific research and have been proven to provide relief from various conditions by directly targeting the source of discomfort.
These techniques involve the use of single-use, sterile intramuscular needles, which are carefully inserted into specific points on the body to stimulate natural healing processes. The targeted use of needles is designed to promote tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain. By restoring balance and improving the body’s ability to heal itself, these therapies help restore function and enhance mobility, making them an integral part of many rehabilitation programs.
Acupuncture and dry needling are commonly used in combination with other physiotherapy treatments, such as manual therapy, exercise, and rehabilitation programmes, for a more comprehensive approach to healing and recovery. These methods are safe, with minimal side effects, and are tailored to meet the specific needs of each individual, ensuring a highly personalised treatment plan.
Whether you are recovering from an injury, managing chronic pain, or working to improve mobility, both acupuncture and dry needling can help address the underlying causes of discomfort and promote long-term wellness. These therapies could be an excellent addition to your treatment plan.
Book an initial physiotherapy assessment to discuss whether acupuncture or dry needling is right for you. Feel free to contact Georgia prior to booking an appointment for discussions around this.
What’s the Difference?
While the terms acupuncture and dry needling are often used interchangeably, they are distinct techniques with different origins and approaches:
-
Acupuncture is is based on the principles of traditional Chinese medicine. It focuses on stimulating specific points, called acupoints, along energy channels (meridians) in the body. These points are targeted to help balance the body’s energy flow, known as Qi (chi), balance the body, reduce inflammation, and promote natural healing.
-
Dry Needling is rooted in Western medicine and focuses on myofascial trigger points—tight bands of muscle or knots. This method releases tension, reduces pain, and improves range of motion by addressing the underlying cause of musculoskeletal dysfunction.
Physiotherapy Practices:
-
Physiotherapists typically use the dry needling method as it is grounded in scientific research and evidence-based practice. It complements physiotherapy treatments by targeting specific muscle dysfunctions and supporting recovery and rehabilitation goals.
-
If you're unsure which approach might be right for you, book an initial physiotherapy assessment to discuss your needs and receive a tailored treatment plan.
What to Expect During Treatment
-
A thorough physiotherapy initial assessment to determine suitability and identify the root cause of your symptoms. This will also help to decide whether acupuncture & dry needling is the appropriate treatment method for you. It can be used as a stand alone method, but is much more effective when used alongside a comprehensive physiotherapy rehabilitation programme for optimal results.
-
Minimal discomfort during needle insertion, with many patients describing a mild ache or twitch response. Your physiotherapist may manually stimulate the needles if deemed necessary. This is also guided by how the patient responds to the treatment.
-
After care form and guidance for future treatments. Acupuncture & dry needling are not very effective when used as stand alone sessions. Typically the scientific literature suggests at least 6-8 treatment sessions are needed before a patient starts to feel the benefits from acupuncture & dry needling.
What It Can Help With:
-
Chronic and acute pain (back, neck, shoulder, knee, etc.)
-
Muscle spasms, tension, and tightness
-
Headaches and migraines
-
Sciatica and nerve pain
-
Sports injuries and postural imbalances
-
Recovery from surgery or overuse injuries
Why Choose Physiotherapy-Led Treatment?
-
Comprehensive care: Needling is integrated into a broader rehabilitation plan.
-
Safe and hygienic: Performed by a licensed physiotherapist using sterile single-use needles.
-
Evidence-based: Supported by clinical research for effective pain management and functional improvements.
Important: An initial physiotherapy assessment is required before treatment to evaluate your condition, ensure suitability, and create a personalised treatment plan tailored to your needs.
-
Acupuncture sessions are booked as part of physiotherapy follow-up sessions. This ensures that treatment is fully integrated into your overall rehabilitation plan, combining needling techniques with other physiotherapy methods like manual therapy and exercise for optimal results.
Start your journey to pain relief, improved mobility, and better performance today. Book your initial physiotherapy assessment to see if acupuncture & dry needling is right for you!
What is Electroacupuncture?
Electroacupuncture is a modern enhancement of traditional acupuncture that uses gentle
electrical stimulation to improve the effectiveness of treatment. Like traditional acupuncture,
thin needles are placed at specific points on the body to restore balance and promote healing.
In electroacupuncture, small electrodes are attached to the needles, allowing a mild electrical
current to flow through them. This creates a gentle vibration or soft hum. The electrical
stimulation mimics the effect of your physiotherapist activating the acupuncture points by hand,
ensuring consistent and optimal stimulation throughout the treatment.
This method can also allow for shorter sessions, as the electrodes can activate acupuncture
points more quickly and efficiently, leaving more time for physiotherapy rehabilitation.
Electroacupuncture is often used for pain relief, muscle tension, inflammation, and nerve
regeneration, providing a soothing and highly effective treatment experience.
How it is Performed
-
Needle Insertion: Thin acupuncture needles are inserted into specific acupuncture points or areas noted by your physiotherapist based on the condition being treated. Electroacupuncture is used on the same key points as traditional acupuncture.
-
Electrical Stimulation: Small clips are attached to the acupuncture needles, connecting them to a device that generates electrical impulses. The small, controlled electrical current creates a gentle vibration or hum, which can be soothing and therapeutic.
-
Adjustable Settings: The physiotherapist adjusts the frequency and intensity of the electrical stimulation to suit the patient's comfort and the therapeutic goal. The electrical current simulates the manual technique of stimulating the needle (rotating the needle), ensuring continuous and even stimulation without requiring manual intervention
-
Duration: Treatment sessions typically last 10–30 minutes, depending on the condition.
Benefits of Electroacupuncture:
-
Patients may find this technique particularly appealing if they prefer a more dynamic sensation or have specific conditions requiring enhanced stimulation, such as nerve pain, chronic inflammation, or deep muscle tension.
-
Pain Relief: It stimulates the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, and modulates nerve signals.
-
Improved Blood Flow: The electrical stimulation enhances circulation, promoting healing and reducing inflammation.
-
Muscle Relaxation: It helps release tight or knotted muscles, often used in musculoskeletal conditions.
-
Neurological Effects: Electroacupuncture is thought to help regenerate nerves and improve nerve conduction, beneficial for conditions like neuropathy.
-
Physiotherapists typically use the dry needling method (rather than the Traditional Chinese Medicine Acupuncture method) as it is grounded in scientific research and evidence-based practice. It complements physiotherapy treatments by targeting specific muscle dysfunctions and supporting recovery and rehabilitation goals.
Common Questions about Acupuncture & Dry Needling
Does it hurt?
-
The sensation varies for everyone. Most people feel a slight prick when the needle is inserted, followed by a mild ache or twitch in the muscle, which is a good sign the treatment is working.
What should I wear to my physiotherapy appointment?
-
Wear comfortable clothing that allows for easy movement. If we are assessing a specific area, such as your knee or shoulder, consider wearing shorts or a vest top to ensure the area is accessible for examination and treatment.
What’s the difference between acupuncture and dry needling?
-
Acupuncture is based on traditional Chinese medicine and focuses on meridian points to balance energy flow (Qi) and promote healing.
-
Dry needling is a Western medicine technique targeting muscle trigger points to release tension and improve function.
Are the needles sterile and safe?
-
Yes, only single-use, sterile needles are used, ensuring a safe and hygienic procedure.
How many sessions will I need?
-
The number of sessions depends on your condition, goals, and response to treatment. Some people may notice improvements after 1-2 sessions, while others may need ongoing treatment of at least 6-8 sessions as part of a broader rehab plan. This will be determined by your physiotherapist during your initial assessment.
How much does it cost?
-
Acupuncture sessions are included within the physiotherapy follow-up session price structure. Please refer to the pricing listed under physiotherapy services below for details.
-
An initial physiotherapy assessment is required for all new patients to ensure acupuncture is appropriate for your needs and to develop a personalised treatment plan.
Is it suitable for everyone?
-
Most people can safely benefit from acupuncture or dry needling. However, an initial physiotherapy assessment is required to ensure it’s appropriate for your condition. Some people are deemed 'high reactors' and this may not be a suitable treatment for them.
Can I combine it with other physiotherapy treatments?
-
Absolutely! Dry needling or acupuncture is almost always used alongside manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, and other physiotherapy techniques for a holistic approach to recovery.
-
Research shows that outcomes are significantly more effective when these treatments are combined with strengthening, rehabilitation exercises, and physiotherapy interventions, helping to address the root cause of pain or dysfunction while improving overall strength, mobility, and function.
-
Your physiotherapist will create a tailored plan to integrate these methods, ensuring the best results for your recovery and long-term well-being.
What should I do after treatment?
-
You might feel mild soreness or fatigue for 24-48 hours, which is normal. Drink water, avoid intense activity, and follow the advice and after care form provided by your physiotherapist.
What is the success rate of these treatments?
-
Both acupuncture and dry needling have been shown to effectively reduce pain, improve mobility, and support recovery when used appropriately by qualified professionals.
Do I need to bring anything to my appointment?
-
Any relevant medical reports, scans (e.g., X-rays or MRIs), or referral letters.
-
A list of any medications you are currently taking and the dose.
-
Comfortable clothing for unrestricted movement.
-
Water and a towel if you anticipate doing more active rehabilitation.
How long is a physiotherapy session?
-
Your initial assessment will typically last 60 minutes, allowing time for a detailed evaluation and treatment.
-
Follow-up sessions last 45 minutes, focusing on building your bespoke and individual treatment plan.
Will I receive treatment during my first appointment?
-
Your first 'initial physiotherapy assessment' session includes a thorough assessment of your condition, followed by initial treatment. Time permitting- this may involve hands-on techniques, acupuncture, education, and specific exercises and rehabilitation tailored to your needs.
Can I claim physiotherapy through my private health insurance?
-
Physiotherapy is often covered by private health insurance but I am currently not affiliated to any providers. If this is something you would like more information about please email georgia@empowerstrengthandphysio.com.
Do I need a GP referral to see a physiotherapist?
-
No, a GP referral is not necessary.
