Our Methods for Tailor-made Healing:
Dry Needling

Dry needling and acupuncture are two different techniques that involve the insertion of thin needles into the body, but they have distinct origins and purposes.

1. Dry Needling: It is a therapeutic technique primarily used by physical therapists, chiropractors, and other healthcare professionals to treat musculoskeletal conditions. Dry needling targets trigger points, which are tight knots within muscles that cause pain and dysfunction. The aim is to release these trigger points and relieve pain by inserting needles directly into the affected muscles.
2. Acupuncture: It is an ancient Chinese medical practice that involves inserting needles into specific points along the body’s energy pathways, known as meridians. The goal of acupuncture is to balance the flow of energy (qi) within the body, promoting overall health and treating various ailments. Acupuncture is based on the concept of Traditional Chinese Medicine and is used for a wide range of conditions beyond musculoskeletal issues.

In summary, while both dry needling and acupuncture involve the use of thin needles, dry needling focuses on releasing muscle trigger points to relieve musculoskeletal pain, while acupuncture aims to restore energy balance within the body to promote general well-being and treat various health conditions.

Dry needling can cause some discomfort or pain during the treatment, but the level of pain can vary depending on individual sensitivity, the areas being treated, and the skill of the practitioner. Here are a few points to consider:

1. Needle insertion: When the thin needles are inserted into the skin and underlying muscles, you may experience a brief sensation similar to a pinprick or mosquito bite. Most people describe this sensation as mild or moderate discomfort, but it is usually tolerable.
2. Twitch response: Dry needling aims to elicit a local muscle twitch response, which can sometimes cause a brief, intense sensation. This twitch response may feel like a cramp or muscle spasm and can be momentarily uncomfortable.

It’s important to communicate with your healthcare professional during the dry needling session. They can adjust the treatment technique or needle placement if the discomfort is excessive. Additionally, they can provide guidance on managing any post-treatment soreness or discomfort that may arise

After dry needling, you may experience muscle soreness or tenderness at the treated areas, which can persist for a few hours or days. This soreness is typically similar to post-exercise muscle soreness and is considered a normal part of the healing process.

While it’s rare, headaches can be an occasional side effect of dry needling. The process involves inserting thin needles into specific trigger points or tight muscles to alleviate pain and promote healing. However, any discomfort experienced during or after dry needling is usually temporary and subsides quickly. If you do experience persistent headaches or any unusual symptoms, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider for proper evaluation and guidance.

Consulting an osteopath or physiotherapist is beneficial as they can assess the severity and stage of your frozen shoulder. They can provide valuable insights into your condition, suggest appropriate modifications or ergonomic adjustments to reduce strain on your shoulder while working, and advise on exercises and stretches that can help maintain or improve shoulder mobility.

By working closely with an osteopath or physiotherapist, you can gain a better understanding of your limitations and prevent further injury by not overexerting your shoulder. They can provide specific recommendations tailored to your work requirements and help you develop strategies to manage your tasks effectively while minimising discomfort.

Remember, open communication with your employer is crucial. Inform them about your frozen shoulder and discuss possible modifications or adaptations to your work environment that can support your recovery. With the right accommodations and professional guidance, you can navigate your work responsibilities while giving your shoulder the necessary care and attention it needs.

Dry needling typically does not cause any severe after-effects. However, it’s common to experience mild soreness or bruising at the needle insertion sites, which should subside within a day or two. It’s advisable to keep the treated areas clean and avoid any vigorous activities or excessive stretching immediately after the session to prevent further discomfort. It’s also essential to follow the post-treatment instructions provided by your physiotherapist to ensure a smooth recovery and achieve the best results.