What is Dry Needling for Myofascial Trigger Points?

At The Oriental Wellness Therapy, your comfort, safety, and wellbeing always come first. We believe it’s important for you to feel fully informed about the treatments we provide, so you can make the choice that feels right for you.

What Are Myofascial Trigger Points (MTPs)?
Myofascial trigger points (MTPs) are commonly known as “muscle knots.” They are small, sensitive areas within tight muscle bands that can:

• Cause localised pain or discomfort
• Refer pain to other areas of the body
• Restrict movement or flexibility

They often develop as a result of muscle overuse, stress, or injury and can contribute to both short-term and long-term discomfort.

What Is Dry Needling?
Dry needling is a specialised, evidence-based treatment designed to release these trigger points and ease pain. A very fine, sterile needle is used to target the specific area of tension in the muscle, helping it to relax and restore normal function.

Although similar needles are used, dry needling is not the same as acupuncture. Acupuncture is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, while dry needling is based on Western medical principles and focuses on treating muscle dysfunction directly.

What Are the Benefits?
The main aim of dry needling is to reduce discomfort, restore mobility, and support your body’s natural recovery. Clients often notice:

• Relief from muscle tightness and tension
• Improved range of movement
• Reduction in pain from both recent and long-standing conditions
• Support in overall recovery and wellbeing

Are There Any Side Effects?
Dry needling is generally very safe. Most people tolerate it well, but mild and temporary effects can sometimes occur, such as:

• Minor bleeding or bruising (around 3% of treatments)
• Mild pain or discomfort during treatment (around 1% of treatments)
• Temporary symptom flare-up in a small number of patients (less than 3%)
• Drowsiness or light-headedness in a few cases—if affected, we recommend avoiding driving immediately afterwards
• Rarely, fainting (especially during a first treatment)

More serious complications are extremely rare, especially when treatment is performed with the highest standards of care.

What Should You Tell Your Practitioner?
To ensure your treatment is safe and effective, please let your practitioner know if you:

• Have ever fainted or experienced seizures
• Have a pacemaker or electrical implant
• Have a bleeding disorder or are taking anticoagulant medication
• Have damaged heart valves or are at increased risk of infection
• Have allergies to metals (especially nickel)
• Have had anaphylactic reactions in the past

At our venue, only single-use, sterile, disposable needles are used. For your safety, we recommend waiting at least 24 hours before using swimming pools or public baths after your session.

A Caring Approach to Your Wellbeing
Dry needling can be an effective therapy for reducing pain and supporting healthy movement. If you are considering this treatment but remain unsure, we recommend consulting your GP before proceeding.

References

• White, A., Cumming, M., & Filshie, J. (2008). An Introduction to Western Medical Acupuncture. London: Churchill Livingstone Elsevier.
• Garrido, F. V., & Muñoz, F. M. (2016). Advanced Techniques for Musculoskeletal Therapy in Physiotherapy. Spain: Elsevier Limited.