Q Sports Physio
DRY NEEDLING
Dry Needling in London
Persistent muscle tightness, trigger points, or pain not responding to exercise and manual therapy alone? Dry needling and Western medical acupuncture can help reduce pain, release tension, and improve movement.
At Q Sports Physio, these techniques are used as part of an evidence-based physiotherapy treatment plan alongside rehabilitation and exercise — never as a standalone treatment.
Dry Needling vs Acupuncture — What's the Difference?
WHAT IS DRY NEEDLING?
Dry needling targets specific myofascial trigger points within muscles. The goal is to release a tight band of muscle, reduce referred pain, and restore normal muscle function. It is primarily used for musculoskeletal conditions and is performed by physiotherapists with specialist training.
WHAT IS WESTERN MEDICAL ACUPUNCTURE?
Western medical acupuncture uses needle insertion at anatomically relevant points to stimulate the nervous system, reduce pain sensitivity, and promote a broader physiological response. It may target areas beyond the immediate site of pain, based on neuroanatomical principles.
HOW WE USE THEM IN PRACTICE
In practice, our physiotherapists often combine dry needling and Western medical acupuncture techniques within the same session, depending on your condition and treatment goals. The distinction matters less than the clinical reasoning behind the treatment and choosing the right approach for your symptoms.
What to Expect during Dry Needling Treatment
Before your session
Your physiotherapist will assess your condition and explain why dry needling or acupuncture is appropriate for you. You'll be informed about what to expect and have the opportunity to ask questions. Consent is always obtained before any needles are used.
During treatment
Fine, sterile, single-use needles are inserted into the treatment area. For dry needling, you may feel a brief muscle twitch — this is a positive sign and indicates the trigger point has been activated. For acupuncture, a mild aching or tingling sensation is common. Needles may be left in place for a few seconds (dry needling) or up to 15–20 minutes (acupuncture), depending on the technique and the area being treated.
After treatment
The treated area may feel slightly achy or tender for 12–24 hours — similar to post-exercise muscle soreness. This settles quickly. You can continue with normal daily activities and light exercise after your session.
Your physiotherapist will recommend needling only when it adds genuine value to your treatment. Not every patient needs it, and not every condition responds to it.
Conditions We Treat With Dry Needling and Acupuncture
Muscle tightness and trigger points
Persistent tight spots in the neck, shoulders, back, glutes, or calves that aren't releasing with stretching or massage alone. Dry needling directly targets these trigger points to produce an immediate release
Neck and back pain
Muscle-related neck pain, thoracic stiffness, and lower back pain often respond well to a combination of needling and exercise. Acupuncture can also help reduce pain sensitivity in chronic conditions.
Tendinopathy
Achilles tendinopathy, tennis elbow, patellar tendinopathy, and rotator cuff issues. Needling into and around the tendon can help modulate pain and improve the tissue environment for rehabilitation.
Knee pain
Including patellofemoral pain and osteoarthritis-related knee pain. Acupuncture has a solid evidence base for pain reduction in knee osteoarthritis.
Headaches and jaw pain
Tension-type headaches and temporomandibular (jaw) pain often originate from trigger points in the neck, shoulder, and jaw muscles. Dry needling these trigger points can provide significant relief.
Post-exercise muscle soreness and recovery
Some athletes use dry needling as part of their recovery strategy, particularly during intensive training blocks, to help manage muscle fatigue and tightness.
Why Choose Q Sports Physio for Dry Needling in London?
Integrated into physiotherapy
Needling is delivered by the same physiotherapist managing your rehabilitation — not by a separate practitioner. This means the treatment is always coordinated with your wider recovery plan.
Trained, experienced physiotherapists
All needling at Q Sports Physio is performed by chartered physiotherapists with specialist postgraduate training in dry needling and Western medical acupuncture.
Evidence-based approach
We use needling where the evidence supports it and the clinical presentation warrants it. We don't use it as a default for every patient — only when it will make a meaningful difference to your outcome.
Locations Dry Needling Treatment
Kew, Richmond – 283 Sandycombe Road, TW9 3LU
Gunnersbury Park Sports Hub – Popes Lane, London W3 8LQ
Flexible booking.
Book online, by phone, or via WhatsApp. Early morning, evening, and weekend appointments available at selected clinics.