What is dry needling?
Dry Needling — also known as Western Musculoskeletal Acupuncture — is an invasive method whereby solid-filament sterile needles are placed into muscles and soft tissue.
The exact benefits and mechanisms of Dry Needling are not fully known — although there is growing scientific evidence supporting the positive effects a needle has on the electrical and chemical communications that take place in our nervous system.
What it helps with
Dry Needling can be effective in:
- Releasing stubborn muscle spasms
- Targeting trigger points — often the same ones used in traditional Chinese acupuncture
- Reducing localised pain
- Restoring normal function to overactive or guarded muscles
Is it safe?
Dry Needling is an extremely safe treatment. Every needle used at Amersham Sports Massage is sterile, individually packed, and designed for single use only. After treatment, needles are disposed of in a medical-grade sharps container.
Often combined with massage
Dry Needling works particularly well alongside hands-on soft tissue therapy. Massage opens up the overall muscle chain and releases the broader tension; needling drills in on the specific trigger points that refuse to let go. The combination tends to deliver results faster than either approach on its own.
Interesting session at Amersham Sports Massage as I ended up getting a little bit of acupuncture (dry needling) on a particular muscle over the top of my knee (rectus femoris) — massive improvement in movement already. — Guy Stapleford, charity fundraiser for “Miles for Wishes”, fresh off John O'Groats to Land's End
Not for everyone
Not every client needs — or wants — dry needling, and that's fine. We'll discuss your history, any medications you're on and your comfort with needles before anything is decided. If it's not for you, there are plenty of other effective options on the menu.
Book an assessment or call 07379 363257 to talk it through.