Dry needling has become one of the most popular treatments at Sera — and one of the most asked-about. Patients often arrive having heard about it from a friend, but unsure what it actually involves. Here's a clear explanation.
What is dry needling?
Dry needling involves inserting a fine, sterile needle directly into a trigger point — a tight, hypersensitive knot within a muscle. The needle causes a brief "twitch response" in the muscle, which releases the tension and improves blood flow to the area. It is called "dry" because no substance is injected.
How is it different from acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice based on the concept of energy meridians. Dry needling is a Western clinical technique based on musculoskeletal anatomy and trigger point theory. The needles look similar, but the theory, training, and application are entirely different.
Who benefits most?
- People with chronic muscle tension that doesn't respond to massage alone
- Tension headache sufferers with tight suboccipital muscles
- Athletes with recurring muscle tightness or delayed recovery
- Office workers with persistent neck and shoulder tightness
- Anyone with identified trigger points causing referred pain
Does it hurt?
Most people feel a brief, dull ache or muscle twitch when the needle reaches the trigger point — this is the therapeutic response. The sensation passes within seconds. Some mild soreness for 24–48 hours afterwards is normal and usually followed by significant relief.
Dry needling is performed by our qualified myotherapists as part of a broader treatment session. Ask about it at your next appointment or book a myotherapy consultation to find out if it's right for you.