Acupuncture, or dry needling, is a method of treatment that has been used to help Acupuncture has been used for nearly 5,000 years to help manage pain and support overall wellness. It involves the insertion of very thin, sterile, single-use needles into specific acupuncture points throughout the body to help stimulate natural healing and relieve discomfort.
Dry needling is a similar technique often used by physiotherapists, but it primarily targets muscle trigger points—commonly known as “knots”—to help release tension and improve movement. While the approach and underlying theory differ, both techniques use very fine needles to help reduce pain and restore function.
Acupuncture and dry needling are commonly used alongside other physiotherapy treatments to help manage both acute and chronic pain. They may also be beneficial for headaches, muscle tightness or spasms, tenderness, and inflammation.
Although side effects are rare, some individuals may experience:
- Mild bruising at the needle site
- Brief lightheadedness or nausea
It is also very common to feel relaxed, calm, or even slightly fatigued after a session—this is a normal response as the body shifts into a recovery state.